THE FIRST SIKH JUDGE IN THE US
Informational Article by Jusarja Sethi
Manpreet Monica Singh is a big deal in the American legal world. She’s the first Sikh woman judge in the United States! This isn’t just a win for her; it’s a huge step forward for the Sikh community, demonstrating that America is becoming more open and welcoming to everyone.
Born to immigrant parents from India, Singh was raised with the core Sikh values of fairness, justice, and community service. Sikhism, a religion that originated in Punjab, India, emphasizes equality, honesty, and standing up for what is right. These principles have been a guiding force in her journey, both personally and professionally. She has often spoken about the importance of her faith in shaping her worldview, stating, “My Sikh values of service and justice have always influenced my work, and I hope to bring that perspective to the bench.”
Religion is a big part of who Manpreet Monica Singh is. Sikhism is all about community, honesty, and standing up for what’s right. Sikhs are known for looking a certain way, like wearing a turban (a special head covering) and not cutting their hair, all of which show that followers are serious about their religion. Manpreet Monica Singh’s beliefs guide her in her job, ensuring that she’s fair and responsible.
Before becoming a judge, Singh built a distinguished career as a lawyer, earning respect for her dedication to civil rights and social justice. With over 20 years of legal experience, she worked tirelessly to ensure fairness in the legal system. Her expertise and commitment made her a strong candidate for the judicial role, ultimately leading to her historic appointment.
Her swearing-in ceremony, which took place in Houston, Texas, was a momentous occasion. Houston, home to one of the largest Sikh communities in the United States, celebrated this achievement with immense pride. At the ceremony, she expressed her gratitude and hope for future generations, saying, “This is a profound moment for our community, proving that barriers can be broken when we work hard and stay true to ourselves.” When Singh became a judge, it was a historic moment. It was a big deal for the Sikh community because they haven't always been well-known or understood in America. Her success has had a ripple effect on the Sikh community in America, inspiring young Sikhs, especially women, to pursue careers in law and public service. According to the Sikh Coalition, an advocacy organization, Sikhs in the U.S. have historically faced discrimination in various professional fields. Her appointment challenges these barriers and sets a powerful precedent.
Like many who break new ground, Singh likely faced some challenges. Being a woman and part of a smaller religious group might have made things harder for her. However, her journey has not been without challenges. As a woman of color and a member of a religious minority, she has had to navigate biases and misconceptions about her identity. Despite this, she remained determined in her mission. “Breaking barriers isn’t easy, but it’s necessary,” she once said in an interview. Her resilience serves as an inspiration to many facing similar struggles.
The impact of her appointment extends beyond the Sikh community. It plays an important role in making the judiciary more diverse, helping the legal system better reflect the people it serves. According to a report by the American Bar Association, as of 2022, only about 37% of U.S. judges were women. Singh’s presence on the bench adds a unique perspective that enriches the justice system and fosters greater inclusivity.
She serves as a role model, showing young Sikhs, especially girls, that they can achieve anything they set their minds to, proving that their dreams can come true and that their unique views are valuable. Her presence makes the legal system more diverse and brings a different perspective to making legal decisions, which can help make things fairer for everyone. She also helps people learn about Sikhism and what Sikhs believe, which can help eradicate false and stereotypical ideas and make people more accepting of the Sikh community.
In addition to her work as a judge, she is actively involved in community service and advocacy. She continues to raise awareness about Sikhism, helping to get rid of stereotypes and promote understanding. The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) has praised her for being a trailblazer who embodies the Sikh principles of justice and service.
Singh’s success has had a profound impact on Sikhs in America. It’s made them feel proud and powerful. It shows that Sikhs can be successful in America while still keeping their religion and culture. Her story is celebrated in Sikh communities everywhere, giving hope to future generations.
Her appointment is a reminder of the progress being made in the fight for equality and representation. It signals to aspiring lawyers that their dreams are achievable. As she continues to serve in her judicial role, Manpreet Monica Singh stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of perseverance and integrity.