Jacksonville

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The Jacksonville Division honors Dr. Harvinder Chadda for his notable leadership and service regarding civil rights issues and for advancing cooperation between the Sikh community and law enforcement.

In February 2013, following the shooting of a Sikh individual in Port Orange, Florida, Dr. Chadda served as a facilitator between the local police department and members of the Sikh community. While the shooting was not proven to be a hate crime, the perception in the community was that the victim was shot due to his religious practices, such as wearing the traditional Sikh turban.

Dr. Chadda met regularly with police executives and worked tirelessly for many months to remind the Sikh community to remain calm and have faith, to let the police carry out their jobs, and to let the judicial system take its course. Port Orange Police Chief credited Dr. Chadda for helping maintain stability in the community during what could have been a divisive time.

In April 2013, the Department of Justice suggested hosting a Hate Crime Forum for the Sikh community in Daytona Beach, Florida. Dr. Chadda was immediately supportive. He helped organize the forum and identified key individuals to attend. Because of his support, the relationship between law enforcement and the Sikh community in Northeast Florida was strengthened and remains strong today.