Gurdev Singh Kang is the former president of the Sikh Cultural Society Inc.
New York Mayor Bill de Blasio on May 25 appointed Indian American Gurdev Singh Kang to the City Commission of Human Rights, along with Carrie Davis and Pakistani American Faiza Patel.
The commission, which enforces and educates on the City Human Rights Law, is one of the most comprehensive of its kind in the nation. Human Rights Commissioners are appointed by the Mayor and advice and assist the Chair and Commissioner in identifying issues of bias, discrimination, and harassment impacting their communities.
“Spanning LGBTQ rights, national security issues, and leadership in Sikh communities, today’s appointees represent the very best of New York City. This progressive and extraordinary qualified group share strong dedication to safeguarding the rights, safety, and dignity of all people in New York City,” Mayor de Blasio said in an official statement.
“It is a great honor to serve as a Commissioner. It is very important that the voice of minorities be heard during this crucial time,” Gurudev Singh Kang said. “Therefore, I hope to help prevent discrimination against New Yorkers based on their race and religious beliefs. Every New Yorker has the right to practice his/her own religion without having to face any fear or threat of a violent attack.”
Gurudev Singh Kang, who emigrated to the US from Punjab in 1981, is the former president of the Sikh Cultural Society Inc., the largest Sikh temple in New York City. He served as president from 2012 to 2016 and has been affiliated with the Sikh Cultural Society for over 25 years. He is a member of the Mayor’s Clergy Advisory Council and a clergy member of 1 Police Plaza.
Carrie Davis worked at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center from 1998 to 2016, most recently serving as the Chief Programs & Policy Officer. Faiza Patel serves as Co-Director of the Brennan Center’s Liberty and National Security Program.