UNITED SIKHS Meets with New York State Chief Administrative Judge to Advance Religious Accommodation Advocacy
New York, NY — On August 14, 2025, UNITED SIKHS met with New York State Chief Administrative Judge Joseph A. Zayas, Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Norman St. George and Executive Director of the Office of Court Administration (OCA), Justin Barry, Esq., to advocate for religious accommodations within the state’s judicial system. The meeting marked a significant step in the organization’s ongoing efforts to ensure that initiated Sikhs are not excluded from civic participation due to restrictions on wearing the Kirpan, a sacred article of faith, in the courthouse.
The teleconference brought together senior court officials and key representatives from UNITED SIKHS, led by Chief Legal Officer Wanda Sanchez Day, Esq., and supported by the organization’s advocacy and policy team. The dialogue centered on fostering greater awareness of Sikh religious practices and exploring pathways for inclusive policy development in courthouse settings.
UNITED SIKHS emphasized the importance of ensuring that religious minorities are able to fully participate in civic life without compromising their faith. The organization reiterated its commitment to working collaboratively with judicial leaders to address barriers faced by Sikh jurors, practitioners, litigants, and community members.
“This meeting reflects our commitment to protecting the rights of religious minorities and ensuring that civic spaces are accessible to all,” said Sanchez Day. “We are encouraged by the openness of the judiciary to engage in this important conversation.”
The Kirpan, worn by initiated Sikhs as a symbol of justice and spiritual devotion, has historically been misunderstood in public institutions, including courthouses. UNITED SIKHS emphasized that prohibitions or limitations on the Kirpan can inadvertently disenfranchise Sikh jurors, litigants, and visitors, undermining their ability to engage fully in civic life.
This meeting marks a significant milestone in UNITED SIKHS’ long-standing campaign to uphold the rights of religious minorities and ensure that civic institutions reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
As part of its broader advocacy mission, UNITED SIKHS continues to champion religious freedom, equity, and access to justice. The organization will provide ongoing support, legal insight, and educational resources to help inform policy reform and public understanding around the Kirpan and other articles of faith.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Gurleen Kaur
Community PR & Media Advocate
gurleen.kaur@unitedsikhs.org
