I’ve seen firsthand how cancel culture works. When you stand up, speak out and make a difference, there are people who will try to tear you down. But here’s the truth: It only works if you let it. And I refuse to let it.

Last election cycle, I spent countless hours registering voters and helping community members deliver their ballots through a ballot harvest box that complied with all of California’s laws. I helped turn out hundreds of Republican voters in our local elections. But apparently, ballot harvesting is only acceptable to some when it’s their ballots being collected.

The first attack came when law enforcement showed up at my office. Someone filed an anonymous complaint accusing me of running an illegal ballot-harvesting operation — completely false and totally unfounded. Everything I did followed the law.

Then came the second hit. A few months later, the California Dental Board sent an investigator to my office after a bogus complaint from someone I’ve never met or treated. The accusation? That I “torture” patients who don’t share my political views. This ridiculous claim was pulled from a lighthearted joke I made during a speech at the Republican Liberty Gala. My words were twisted, and my career was targeted — but I didn’t back down.

And this time, it was not anonymous — so I now know who my fan is here in Santa Clarita.

More recently, I was honored to receive a local magazine’s Best Pediatric Dentist award. Normally, winners receive three certificates — one from the L.A. County supervisor, one from the state Assembly, and one from the congressional office. Curiously, mine was missing the congressional certificate. The presenter even said they had never seen that happen before. Coincidence? I’ll let you decide.

These are not isolated events. This is what cancel culture looks like: targeted harassment of professionals, business owners and anyone who dares to think differently. But here’s the truth: It didn’t work.

My practice is thriving. I continue to serve Santa Clarita families with pride and purpose. And if anything, these attacks have only made me more determined to stand tall, speak louder and fight harder.

To anyone reading this who’s ever been afraid to speak up — don’t be. Cancel culture only wins if we stay quiet. We need to build a community where hard work is honored, free speech is respected, and you don’t have to hide your beliefs to run a business or serve your neighbors.

Stand tall. Speak loud. Fight back.

Dr. Harleen Grewal

Santa Clarita