Constable Zeena Ali is New Zealand Police’s first member to wear a specially designed hijab as part of her uniform.
“It feels great to be able to go out and show the New Zealand Police uniform hijab because I was able to take part in the design process,” said Ali.
During training for her wing, according to the New Zealand Police’s social media, the Royal New Zealand Police College staff organised halal meals and made a prayer room available.
“When I had to go swimming I was able to wear long sleeves — a full swim suit.”
“It was when I was just training to get into police, that the Christchurch terror attack happened and if I was a fully-fledged constable then I would have gone down to support the victims and their families.”
Ali believes that the move will encourage other women to apply to the force as well. “Having a police-branded hijab means women, who may not have previously considered policing, can do so now. It’s great how the police incorporated my religion and culture.”
According to BBC, other forces such as the Metropolitan Police in London and Scotland Police offer the option of a uniform hijab.❐
