Key Takeaways
A message from our Executive Director & Board Executive Chair
The COVID-19 pandemic and the country’s political climate made 2020 one of the most transformative and important years in the Sikh Coalition’s history. How our team responded shows the strength and willingness of our institution to adapt in times of need; how the Sikh community responded shows the resilience of our sangat. As we enter the Sikh Coalition’s 20th year, we recognize that COVID-19 and the current political climate weigh heavily on American families, including Sikh American families. Although we now have an administration that champions science in shaping our response to the virus, we will also need to work harder than ever before to build compassion and respect with each other. It is critical that we maintain the spirit, talent, and financial security to face the mounting challenges ahead.
Accomplishments of 2020
200+ requests for free legal assistance answered • 42,000+ impressions on our COVID-19 resources • 115+ hours of free virtual programming created for all ages • Millions of Americans learn about Sikhs through U.S. news hits • 2 new states joined 12 others to include Sikhi in state standards • 15,000 Sikh voters in key "swing" states reached through our GOTV initiative
COVID-19 Response
Although the Sikh Coalition does not programmatically focus on public health-related issues, we recognize that millions of American families are being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In March, the organization made a necessary decision to shift critical resources to ensure that the Sikh community was prepared to respond to this health crisis. We created pandemic-related resources in English and Punjabi, introduced virtual programming for all ages, provided free legal support to protect the religious rights of Sikh healthcare providers/professionals serving on the frontlines, and so much more. Moreover, we did all of this without compromising our ongoing mission to fight for Sikh civil rights.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the country’s political climate made 2020 one of the most transformative and important years in the Sikh Coalition’s history. How our team responded shows the strength and willingness of our institution to adapt in times of need; how the Sikh community responded shows the resilience of our sangat.
