What are the responsibilities and job description for the Legal Externship Fall 2026 position at SIKH COALITION INC?
The Sikh Coalition is a nonprofit civil rights advocacy organization founded in the immediate aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks to respond to the sharp rise in violence, hate, and discrimination against Sikh Americans. The legal team combines direct client representation with impact litigation to secure justice for individuals while also driving broader changes to protect Sikh communities from discrimination and bias. The legal team handles a wide range of matters arising from discrimination against Sikhs based on their religious identity and appearance, including in school bullying, hate crime, profiling, and workplace discrimination cases.
We are seeking law school students to serve as legal externs during the Fall of 2026. We are seeking candidates who are intellectually curious, hardworking, and self-motivated, with a strong passion for social justice and civil rights. The ideal candidates bring strong legal research skills (internet and legal database research), along with excellent writing and analytical abilities. They work well as part of a team and are committed to collaborative practice.
Legal interns will gain hands-on experience by conducting legal research and drafting research memoranda, letters, and litigation related documents. They will develop practical skills through direct involvement in active matters, including by interviewing clients and witnesses, joining co-counsel strategy meetings, and helping prepare for and observing pre-trial and trial procedures.
Interns will also gain exposure to federal and state anti-discrimination and religious rights laws, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 1983/Bivens, the First Amendment, federal and state Religious Freedom Restoration Acts, and the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, among others.
The weekly minimum hour requirement will vary based on the number of credits the students is seeking. Generally, externs work approximately 10-20 hours per week for the duration of the externship. Our office is located in New York City, but this internship is a fully remote position.
Interns must have their own laptop, as equipment will not be provided.
To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis between now and July 31, 2026.