WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — SABA North America is celebrating two new South Asian judges heading to the federal bench. Judge Mustafa Kasubhai was confirmed to the federal district court in Oregon and Amir Ali is heading to the federal district court in the District of Columbia.
Judge Mustafa Kasubhai was born to Indian immigrants. In 2018, became the first Muslim American to serve as a federal magistrate judge. His appointment makes him the first Muslim American and Asian American judge on Oregon’s federal court.
Before becoming a circuit judge, he practiced civil law and on the Oregon Workers’ Compensation Board. He is a founder of the South Asian Bar Association (SABA) of Oregon.
“We are proud of Judge Kasubhai’s confirmation,” said Keerthi Sugumaran, SABA North America’s president. “He is an accomplished jurist and his appointment ensures that the judiciary reflects Oregon’s rich diversity.”
Amir Ali was confirmed to the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. He is the first Arab American and the first Muslim U.S. District Court Judge on this prestigious court. As president and executive director of the Roderick & Solange MacArthur Justice Center, Ali has led efforts to protect the rights of criminal justice defendants, including significant cases such as Atkins v. Virginia.
SABA Executive Director Mona Shah expressed her welcome by stating how Ali’s appointment was a huge step forward. “Mr. Ali’s confirmation brings invaluable perspectives to the judiciary,” Shah said. “His commitment to advancing legal and civil rights exemplifies the thoughtful and fair approach the judiciary needs in today’s complex landscape.”
