As Dhillon Fills DOJ Civil Rights Role, SALDEF Urges Accountability

India-West Staff Reporter

WASHINGTON, DC — The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), a community advocacy group, issued a measured response following the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Harmeet Kaur Dhillon as the next Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice.

Dhillon’s appointment marks a historic milestone, as she becomes the first Sikh American to hold the position.

SALDEF noted in its statement that the Civil Rights Division plays a critical role in upholding constitutional protections, enforcing federal anti-discrimination laws, and ensuring that marginalized communities are safeguarded from injustice,

“This position requires a steadfast, impartial commitment to upholding the rights of all communities,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “We look forward to continuing our work to advance the civil and constitutional rights of all Americans.”

In December 2024, when her nomination had been announced, SALDEF had acknowledged concerns raised by members of the Sikh American community regarding its initial statement on Dhillon’s nomination. While the organization recognized the historical significance of her nomination and her early contributions to civil rights—particularly in the years following 9/11—it also expressed concern over aspects of her more recent record.

In its clarification, SALDEF emphasized that true leadership in civil rights must be rooted in the defense of all communities, not guided by partisan interests.

With her confirmation, Dhillon now leads one of the most critical divisions within the Department of Justice, responsible for protecting civil rights and ensuring that all Americans are treated with equity and dignity under the law.