For the first time, the New Zealand Police have incorporated hijab into their official uniform to motivate Greater numbers of Muslim women to join forces.
Constable Zeena Ali will be the first police officer to wear the official hijab during duty.
New Zealand Police revealed that the work to develop the hijab for its uniform began in late 2018 in acknowledgement of requests from police staff.
Why Was It Important?
It is an effort by the New Zealand police to match the demographics of the community, reduce the crime rate, and allow Muslim officers to serve the country along with meeting their personal needs.
New Zealand Police gave a statement saying it is vital that the force proudly reflects and represents the people it serves. "We need people with a variety of abilities, spheres, and levels of experience.”
“Diversity is essential so that we can effectively serve the needs of the communities of New Zealand now and in the future. We aim to achieve better problem solving and outcomes by representing the communities we serve and appreciating distinct thinking."
First Officer: Constable Zeena Ali
Constable Zeena Ali is the first officer to be wearing a hijab as a police uniform while serving for the country. The 30-year-old constable disclosed that she was inspired to join the police duty after the Christchurch terror attack at two mosques in which around 51 people were killed and several injured last year in New Zealand.
Zeena has worked along with police to design a hijab that is both functional for her duty and considerate of her religion. Zeena said she is proud to represent her community and she believes this change will inspire other Muslim women to join the force and serve the country.
Christchurch Attack
Two back-to-back mass shootings took place at mosques in a terrorist attack in Christchurch, New Zealand during the Friday Prayer on 15 March 2019. The attack was carried out by a single man who was carrying a gun.
He entered both mosques, began at the Al Noor Mosque of Riccarton at 1:40 pm and next at Linwood Islamic Centre at 1:52 pm. He killed 51 people in the mass shooting and injured 40.
The mass shooting left a deep scar in the citizens’ minds and was called one of the darkest days in the history of New Zealand by their Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern.
Why is Hijab Included in The Uniform?
Muslim women that choose to wear hijab are allowed to maintain their modesty, morality, and freedom of choice. They decide to cover because they believe it makes them feel safe and allows them to avoid harassment.
The motive behind including the hijab in the uniform was to celebrate the diversity of citizens. New Zealand’s police think that their officers should feel comfortable while they are at work.
They aim to receive the inclusion and participation of more and more women, of all races to serve the country. They believe this step might prove to be a stepping stone for the same.
Are There Any Other Countries Following New Zealand’s Footsteps?
It all started in 2008 when New Zealand Police included turbans in their uniforms. The step was taken for the Sikh officers to feel included and work at their comfort.
In the United Kingdoms, The Metropolitan Police in London approved Hijab in the police uniform in 2006. Whereas, the same took place in Scotland in the year 2016.
What Can We Sketch Out From The Whole Incident?
We should look up to the step taken by New Zealand and encourage thoughtful decisions like these. Like Zeena, there might be several women who will now do their duty and be happy at the thought of their diversity being celebrated.
Edited By - Christeena George
Written By - Nandita Singh
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