Prior to the filing of this complaint, the Sikh Coalition worked with the family to formally appeal the negative finding of the School District’s initial investigation. Unfortunately, both the first investigation and the appeal ended with the School Board refusing to take corrective action; officials insisted on characterizing obviously bias-motivated attacks as ‘nicknames,’ and downplayed the extent of the bullying that the Sikh student experienced.
“Our top priority is ensuring a quick and safe path for this child to return to a healthy learning environment,” said Giselle Klapper, Sikh Coalition Senior Staff Attorney. “However, it is also important that the School Board recognize and remedy how their investigation failed to acknowledge--let alone appropriately respond to--the obvious bias driving this bullying behavior. We must protect all students from this kind of harassment moving forward.”
Given that this civil case is just beginning, we look forward to providing further updates in the near future. In the meantime, if you or a Sikh child you know is experiencing bullying in or out of the classroom, please know you can
reach out to our legal team for free expert assistance.
As always, the Sikh Coalition urges you to practice your faith fearlessly.
