New Jersey State Assembly swore in its first Indian American of Sikh heritage, Balvir Singh, a Democrat who represents the 7th District alongside Assemblywoman Carol Murphy. Assemblyman Singh takes the seat recently vacated by Congressman Herb Conaway.
A public school educator, and a mathematician by training, Assemblyman Balvir Singh, is a public servant of long standing. He received the oath of office January 30, from Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin to become a member of the New Jersey General Assembly.
Descirbed as “A lifelong champion of resilience and opportunity,” by his Democratic colleagues, Assemblyman Singh has made history as the first Sikh to be sworn in as a member of the New Jersey Legislature. He is described as a staunch advocate for education, economic opportunity, and equitable access to essential services.
“Balvir is a stellar example of dedication to both community and state, and we are fortunate to welcome him into the General Assembly,” Speaker Coughlin (D-Middlesex), is quoted saying in the press release from NJ Assembly Democrats. “His background in education and public service, combined with his strong commitment to improving lives, will undoubtedly make him a powerful advocate for his constituents and a key voice in the Caucus moving forward.”
Assemblyman Singh previously served on the Burlington Township Board of Education from 2015 to 2017, before his election to the Burlington County Board of Commissioners. As a Burlington County Commissioner in his 3rd term, Assemblyman Singh is credited with working to address affordable housing, economic development, and public health, supporting initiatives such as distributing over $13 million in rental assistance, launching zero-interest loans for businesses, and supporting efforts to construct a 60-bed emergency shelter for the county’s most vulnerable residents.
“I will remain committed to ensuring the voices of everyday people in Burlington County and across New Jersey are heard in Trenton,” Singh said. “I am excited to work alongside my new partners in the Legislature as we continue to build on efforts to make New Jersey a more equitable and prosperous place for all residents.”
Hailing from a small village in Punjab, where he spent his childhood, Singh came to the United States with his parents who settled in Burlington City. He attended Burlington City High School.
Singh has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics from The College of New Jersey, a Master of Science degree in Mathematics from Rutgers University, and a supervisory certificate from Rowan University.
“With nearly two decades of experience as a public-school educator and a passion for shaping the next generation, Assemblyman Singh brings a unique perspective to policymaking,” Democrats said in the press release.
“Honored & Humbled to win a seat in NJ General Assembly!” Singh tweeted. “As a millennial & soon-to-be the first Sikh legislator in NJ history, I’m grateful for the support of my family, friends, Dem committee members & elected officials. Together, we’ll move our state forward!”
In his community, Singh enjoys playing pick-up soccer on the weekends and is an avid fan of all Philadelphia sports teams. In his free time, he enjoys nature through hiking, camping, and road trips with his family.
(Used with permission)
Related posts:
Virginia’s JJ Singh Becomes First Turbaned Sikh State Legislator, Calls for Action on Gun Violence and Lowering Tuition Costs
India urges the United Nations to work closely with Member States
Indian Overseas Congress, NJ and Indo American Cultural Society, Pay Homage to Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh
Indian Americans Mourn the Passing of Manmohan Singh: Architect of Modern India and U.S.-India Partnership
