Join SAALT
Make a Difference
Are you interested in becoming a part of the broader movement to empower the South Asian community in America?
Have you been drawn to SAALT's vision for community empowerment through coalition building?
Are you interested in supporting SAALT's work towards increasing civic engagement among South Asians?

If you answered "yes" to any of the questions above, SAALT invites you to become a member of the organization. This document provides information on why and how to become a SAALT member. We look forward to welcoming you to the SAALT community!

Why Become a SAALT Member?
How being a SAALT Member can impact you…

1. Change Starts Here: Joining SAALT enables you to be part of an organization that is advocating on issues affecting South Asians, and to be connected to a broader social justice movement in America.

2. Be part of the Solution: You will join SAALT's efforts to address pressing issues that South Asians face such as combating civic and political apathy; bridging socio-economic divides; and forging unity among different national, religious, and regional groups.

3. We rely on you: SAALT relies on the support of individuals in the community to continue our work towards ensuring the full and equal participation of all South Asians in American civic and political life.

4. It Matters: As the South Asian population grows rapidly, it is crucial that the community comes together to create and support social justice and advocacy organizations.

5. Learn about our Work: As a member, you'll receive an annual newsletter in the mail containing current information on the needs and issues within the South Asian community, and access to events and briefings.

6. Direct Communication: Members can participate in quarterly calls where SAALT's Executive Director and Board Members will brief you about current projects and answer your questions.

7. Attend SAALT Events: You'll receive access and discounts to informative events, such as documentary screenings, receptions, conferences, and speaking engagements.

8. Access to Information: SAALT can provide you with information on South Asians in the US, ranging from demographics, to immigrant rights, to toolkits that can be used to generate discussion.

9. Connect with other organizations: Learn about other South Asian organizations around the country and their work through us.

10. Enhance your Skills: As a member, you will receive information on and access to skills-building and leadership development trainings.

About SAALT

What is SAALT'S Mission?
SAALT is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the full and equal participation by South Asians in American civic and political life.

How does SAALT pursue its Mission?
There are four primary ways that SAALT works towards achieving its goals:

• SAALT builds coalitions among the South Asian community by connecting local community organizations that transcend regional, religious, and national barriers. Through direct dialogue with community members and organizations serving the community, SAALT identifies pressing needs among local South Asian populations.
  
• SAALT advocates for equal and fair civil rights by communicating and meeting with policy and lawmakers.
  
• SAALT raises awareness about the current needs of the South Asian community through documentaries, toolkits, and other materials.
  
• SAALT encourages civic engagement by promoting volunteerism, leadership development, and civic education to foster active community members.

What are some of SAALT's current programs/initiatives and past accomplishments?

• The Exchange: SAALT conducts half-day dialogues, known as "SAALT Exchanges", around the country with local community members to discuss and identify pressing needs and gaps in services within the South Asian community. SAALT Exchanges have occurred in New Jersey, Chicago, New York City, Philadelphia and the Bay Area. Additional SAALT Exchanges are scheduled in the coming months.
  
• Raising Our Voices: "Raising Our Voices" is SAALT's documentary that addresses the impact of hate crimes on South Asian Americans before and after September 11th. SAALT has used the documentary as a tool to educate thousands of individuals across the country about this important issue.
  
• Meetings with Lawmakers: SAALT Staff and Board Members frequently meet with state and federally elected officials and government officials from the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security to discuss policy issues that affect South Asians.
  
• Be the Change: SAALT works with local community members to organize Be the Change, an annual nation-wide day of community service designed to engage the South Asian community in volunteerism and service.
  
• "Your Point of Entry" Toolkits: SAALT creates and updates educational materials related to issues affecting South Asians, ranging from demographics to issuing policy briefs to talking points on matters that affect South Asians as immigrants and people of color in the United States.
  
• Leadership and Skills Building: Through skills-building programs, Speakers' Bureaus, and convenings, SAALT helps to increase the awareness and ability of South Asians to empower themselves and their communities.

What is the role of a SAALT Member?
Members provide a base of support for SAALT and its work, and they supply a direct source of information for SAALT to learn about issues in local communities. Members pay an annual membership fee and, if they are willing and available, can become involved in SAALT initiatives and programs.

What are the various levels of membership and benefits?

* Ally and Supporter Members will receive a complimentary copy of SAALT's award-winning 26-minute documentary, "Raising Our Voices: South Asian Americans Address Hate"

Is my membership fee tax-deductible?
Yes, members can deduct the full value of their membership dues. SAALT is a 501(c)( 3) non-profit organization.