Bangladeshi-Origin Woman Becomes US Judge After Taking Oath on the Quran

Soma Saeed, a woman of Bangladeshi origin, has been sworn in as a judge in the United States after taking her oath of office by placing her hand on the Holy Quran—an unprecedented moment in the history of the US judiciary.

The oath-taking ceremony took place on Monday evening at the Queens Civil Court House in New York City, in the presence of senior judges, government officials, diplomats, and prominent members of the community.

This marks the first time in US history that a judge has taken the oath of office using the Quran, a milestone widely viewed as a powerful symbol of religious diversity and inclusion in the American judicial system. The historic moment has sparked widespread discussion and celebration among millions of Bangladeshi expatriates across all 50 US states, with reports of community gatherings, sweets being distributed, and expressions of pride and joy.

Speaking after the ceremony, Soma Saeed expressed her excitement and gratitude, describing the occasion as deeply meaningful both personally and professionally.

Beyond this historic oath, Saeed is well known as a highly accomplished legal professional and a familiar figure within the Bangladeshi-American community. She previously served as a Queens District Judge in 2021, earning recognition for her legal expertise and community engagement.

Her appointment is being hailed as a landmark achievement for representation, diversity, and the growing contributions of Bangladeshi Americans within the US legal system.