AI Generated Summary
- A New York–based attorney of Indian origin has stepped up efforts to secure official recognition for the Punjabi language in the state, highlighting the growing influence and concerns of the Sikh and Punjabi community in the United States.
- During the meeting, held on February 17 at the Governor’s Manhattan office, the group presented a memorandum outlining a range of cultural, educational and community-related demands, with the recognition of Punjabi language at its core.
- According to members of the delegation, the memorandum sought official recognition of Punjabi to enable its inclusion in schools and colleges, as well as greater accessibility in public services such as the DMV.
A New York–based attorney of Indian origin has stepped up efforts to secure official recognition for the Punjabi language in the state, highlighting the growing influence and concerns of the Sikh and Punjabi community in the United States.
Jaspreet Singh, an Attorney-at-Law in the US and an alumnus of Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar, recently led a delegation of Sikh representatives to meet New York Governor Kathy Hochul. During the meeting, held on February 17 at the Governor’s Manhattan office, the group presented a memorandum outlining a range of cultural, educational and community-related demands, with the recognition of Punjabi language at its core.
Senior officials from several state departments, including the Department of Education, the State Police, the Department of Motor Vehicles and Interfaith Affairs, attended the discussion. Sibu Nair, Director of Asian American Affairs, was also present, signalling the administration’s engagement with issues affecting diverse communities across the state.
According to members of the delegation, the memorandum sought official recognition of Punjabi to enable its inclusion in schools and colleges, as well as greater accessibility in public services such as the DMV. Community leaders also pressed for support in establishing a cultural centre linked to the Gurdwara Sikh Cultural Society of New York, alongside assistance in developing a dedicated funeral facility to serve local families.
Concerns about rising hate crimes and safety challenges faced by Sikhs and Punjabis were also raised. The delegation urged the state to strengthen preventive measures and improve outreach to immigrant communities navigating legal and social hurdles. Singh highlighted ongoing legal difficulties faced by detainees, noting that habeas corpus petitions remain a critical tool in securing relief for vulnerable individuals.
Participants described the Governor’s response as constructive, with a follow-up meeting planned for May to continue discussions on the proposals. During the interaction, community members also invited Hochul to attend the Sikh Day Parade scheduled to take place in Manhattan on April 25, 2026.
The initiative reflects broader efforts by diaspora groups to preserve linguistic and cultural identity while seeking stronger institutional support in one of America’s most diverse states.
