Gottheimer introduces bill to combat anti-Sikh discrimination, create DOJ task force
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) on Saturday announced new legislation aimed at protecting members of the Sikh community in New Jersey and across the country from hate and discrimination.
The legislation, unveiled May 31, would create a dedicated task force within the U.S. Department of Justice to address anti-Sikh bigotry. The task force would also be responsible for developing a federal definition of anti-Sikhism.
“No one in Jersey or our great country should live in fear because of their faith,” Gottheimer said in a statement. “The Sikh community has been a vital part of our great, diverse Jersey and American community for generations. Yet, they continue to face hate and discrimination. My legislation will help ensure the federal government is able to combat anti-Sikh bigotry head-on. We must stand united against hate in all its forms. It has no place in our state or country.”
Gottheimer, who represents New Jersey’s Fifth Congressional District, has long supported efforts to promote religious tolerance and strengthen the security of faith-based communities. In 2023, he helped secure $150,000 in federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program funding for the Sikh Gurudwara of Glen Rock to bolster physical security and help guard against domestic threats.
Gottheimer’s announcement comes amid a broader push at the federal level to address rising incidents of hate targeting religious minorities in the United States.
