FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, July 12, 2024
Contact:
Amrita Kular, (202) 393-2700, media@saldef.org
LOCAL AND NATIONAL SIKH ORGANIZATIONS CELEBRATE THE APPOINTMENT OF RAJ SINGH BADHESHA TO THE FRESNO COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT BENCH
Judge Raj Singh Badhesha Represents a Historic First for the Sikh Community in the United States
FRESNO, CA — In a momentous occasion for the Sikh community in the United States, the Jakara Movement, the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), and the Sikh Coalition, are proud to celebrate the historic appointment of Raj Singh Badhesha to the Fresno County Superior Court Bench.
An enrobing ceremony was held Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Fresno City Hall.
Raj Singh Badhesha’s appointment is not just a professional achievement; it represents the culmination of decades of perseverance and dedication by Sikhs in America. He is the first ever Sikh to wear a judge’s robe in Fresno County; he is also the first Amritdhari (fully initiated) Sikh Judge in the United States that wears the Dastar (Sikh turban) or Pagri, per reporting. Badhesha’s presence on the bench symbolizes the rich cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of the Sikh community.
In response to his appointment, Badhesha remarked, “It is my hope moving forward, that the Sikh youth present here today know that they can use this example and aspire to serve this county, this state, and this nation, in any position they wish to pursue.” He added, “As I step into this new phase of service, I am aware of the great weight of the responsibilities bestowed upon me…I will strive to do my best each and every day, act impartially, honorably, and with the utmost integrity.”
The Sikh community has deep roots in California’s Central Valley, with Sikh farmers and laborers having settled in the region over a century ago. Their contributions to agriculture and local industry have been invaluable, and their cultural influence is woven into the fabric of the region. Today, Sikhism is the fifth-largest religion in the world, with millions of adherents who follow its teachings of equality, justice, and selfless service.
Immediately before his appointment, Badhesha served as Chief Assistant City Attorney in the Fresno City Attorney’s Office since 2022 and served in several roles in that office since 2012. He was an Associate at the law firm of Baker Manock & Jensen, PC from 2008 to 2012. Badhesha earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings).
Naindeep Singh, Executive Director of the Jakara Movement, expressed his excitement, stating, “Raj Singh Badhesha’s appointment is a groundbreaking moment for Sikhs in America. It reflects our community’s resilience and our contributions to the broader society. We are incredibly proud of Raj for breaking this glass ceiling and confident that he will bring his unwavering commitment to justice and equality to the bench.”
“Raj Singh Badhesha’s appointment is a proud moment for the Sikh community in the Central Valley, throughout California and across the Country. He has displayed decades of dedication to justice and community advocacy, and serves as an inspiration to all those looking to serve and make change,” added SALDEF Executive Director Kiran Kaur Gill.
Harman Singh, Executive Director of the Sikh Coalition also commented on this milestone: “This appointment is a significant step towards greater representation and diversity within our judicial system. Raj Singh Badhesha’s journey and achievements inspire us all and highlight the importance of inclusion and equality in all spheres of public service.”
The Jakara Movement, SALDEF and the Sikh Coalition, will continue to support and advocate for the Sikh community, celebrating milestones like this that pave the way for future generations.
Pictures of Judge Badhesha’s Enrobing Ceremony are available here.