The Sikh Coalition has been working since the early days of the pandemic to ensure that no Sikh American feels they have to choose between their articles of faith and their desire to serve in the medical profession--particularly in this time of need. Since March, we have helped several other Sikh healthcare professionals across the nation secure PAPRs or other similar devices via religious accommodations. We also worked directly with the North American Sikh Medical and Dental Association (NASMDA) to produce
informing them of their rights when it comes to articles of faith and PPE guidelines, and we have provided behind the scenes guidance on best practices for Sikhs in requesting an accommodation and advocating for themselves on a global level.
“There is no difference between the service of Sikhs who choose to work in the medical field with their articles of faith and anyone else in their line of work,” said Cindy Nesbit, Sikh Coalition Senior Staff Attorney. “We are glad to help them secure alternative forms of PPE that allow them to continue saving lives. Now more than ever, the medical profession needs all hands on deck--and that means that healthcare employers uphold their obligation to ensure equality of opportunity for religious minorities.”
If you or someone you know is a healthcare professional, please read
the above-mentioned letter we co-wrote with NASMDA, as well as this
initial memo we released in March offering guidance on how to proactively request a religious accommodation for a PAPR or CAPR. Similarly, if you or someone you know have been told to shave facial hair in response to COVID-19, please contact the Sikh Coalition’s legal team for
free legal aid immediately. You can also email
ppe4sikhs@gmail.com to inquire about obtaining appropriate PPE through NASMDA.
As always, the Sikh Coalition urges you to practice your faith fearlessly.