Momentum is building in Washington for a crucial bill tackling anti-Sikh bigotry, with fresh bipartisan backing from prominent figures. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) launched H.R. 7100, the Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act 2025, and Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) has joined as co-sponsor, bolstering its prospects in the House.
Lofgren, steward of San Jose’s large Sikh populace and American Sikh Congressional Caucus vice chair, voiced strong convictions. She highlighted surging hate incidents and demanded DOJ vigilance. ‘Pride in representing this community drives me to secure federal action against discrimination,’ she committed.
Rooted in community feedback, Gottheimer’s bill emerged from talks with North Jersey Sikhs. It equips authorities to define, track, and thwart hate crimes effectively, ensuring safe religious practice nationwide. ‘Decisive congressional steps are imperative,’ he asserted.
Success would spawn a dedicated DOJ task force to clarify anti-Sikh hate, devise awareness drives for educators, police, and universities, and furnish Congress with annual insights. Sikh organizations nationwide, from the Sikh Coalition to the Caucus Committee, champion the measure as essential for federal-level safeguards.
Against a backdrop of post-9/11 traumas and ongoing bias, this bill embodies proactive governance. Lofgren’s support elevates its profile, potentially paving the way for passage and inspiring similar defenses for other groups. It reaffirms the US commitment to pluralism amid diversity’s tests.