The Sikh Coalition is a community-based organization that works towards the realization of civil and human rights for all people. In particular, we work towards a world where Sikhs may freely practice and enjoy their faith while fostering strong relations with their local community wherever Sikhs may be. We pursue our mission by:

• Providing direct legal services to persons whose civil or human rights are violated;
• Advocating for law and policies that are respectful of fundamental rights;
• Promoting appreciation for diversity through education; and
• Fostering civic engagement in order to promote local community

POSITION SUMMARY

The Sikh Coalition seeks a highly motivated staff attorney based in the organization’s office in New York City. The staff attorney will provide direct legal services to Sikh victims of hate crimes, employment discrimination, public accommodation discrimination, profiling, and other forms of discrimination. This is a full-time position that reports to the Coalition’s Legal Director.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Represent and advocate on behalf of Sikhs in a wide range of civil rights matters;
• Analyze clients’ claims under relevant law;
• Conduct legal research, and draft legal memoranda and pleadings;
• Assist with litigation in civil cases before state and federal courts and administrative agencies;
• Manage intake (interview prospective clients and provide advice and referrals);
• Recruit pro bono counsel and collaborate with other attorneys;
• Supervise and manage interns;
• Represent the Sikh Coalition at meetings and speaking engagements.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Bachelors and Juris Doctor degrees required;
• Bar membership in at least one U.S. based jurisdiction;
• At least 1-3 years of previous legal experience, litigation preferable;
• Demonstrated passion for social justice;
• Excellent written, oral and analytical skills;
• Ability to handle a large caseload and multi-task effectively;
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment;
• Basic computer and Westlaw skills;
• Punjabi language skills a plus.

COMPENSATION: Commensurate with experience. Generous benefits package includes medical, dental, pension matching program, vacation and sick leave. Annual bar membership dues and CLE fees are reimbursed. To apply for the position, please send your resume and a cover letter: jobs@sikhcoalition.org. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

The Sikh Coalition is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

THE SIKH SPIRIT FOUNDATION - Partial funding for this position was provided by The Sikh Spirit Foundation.  The Sikh Spirit Foundation's primary purpose is to promote Sikh values through education.

The Foundation supports innovative projects and organizations in various areas of Sikh community development, including education and civil rights.    Funds are allocated with the intention to generate maximum impact on the community and stimulate growth for Sikhs. The Sikh Spirit Foundation welcomes grant applications from individuals and organizations who believe that their charitable work falls within these parameters. 

Contact info@sikhspiritfoundation.org for more information.