United Sikhs push to end Kirpan restrictions in New York courts

Restrictions on carrying the Kirpan affects Sikh jurors, practitioners, litigants, and community members, the organization said.

Representative image / United Sikhs Website

Restrictions on wearing the Kirpan, a sacred article of faith, in New York courthouses were at the center of a recent teleconference between United Sikhs and key members of the state judiciary.

On Aug. 14, United Sikhs representatives met with 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 judicial system.

The discussion marked a significant step in the organization’s ongoing efforts to ensure Sikhs are not excluded from civic participation because of courthouse Kirpan restrictions.

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Restrictions on carrying the Kripan affects Sikh jurors, practitioners, litigants, and community members, United Sikhs said.

Chief Legal Officer of United Sikhs, Wanda Sanchez Day, led the organization's representation. Talking about the meeting, Day said, “This meeting reflects our commitment to protecting the rights of religious minorities and ensuring that civic spaces are accessible to all.”

Day added, “We are encouraged by the openness of the judiciary to engage in this important conversation.”

United Sikhs highlighted the importance of the dialogue and said in a statement, "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.

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