Starting his speech with the Sikh greeting "Sat Sri Akal", Senator Schumer congratulated the Sikh community on this 310th Vaisaikhi and commended the Sikhs for being "one of America's hardest working communities." UNITED SIKHS continues to work with Senator Schumer and other members of Congress in advocating for civil rights issues including employment discrimination, international religious freedom (Right to Turban campaign), the right to serve in the armed forces, hate/bias crimes and immigration reform.

Commenting on Senator Schumer's attendance, UNITED SIKHS Staff Attorney Jaspreet Singh stated, "We appreciate the Senator's outreach to the Sikh community and his recognition of the Sikh community as a contributing part of America." He added, "the Senator's support on Sikh civil rights issues is invaluable in our struggle for equality and justice."

Sikh Cultural Society of New York President Tehal Singh stated, "Senator Schumer is one of the most progressive representatives in the country. We are thankful of his support for the Sikh community," he added.