For the first time New Zealand Police has introduced hijab into their official uniform to encourage more Muslim women to join the force. New recruit, 30 year old Constable Zeena Ali will become the first officer to wear the official hijab during duty.
Zeena was inspired to join the force after the Christchurch terror attack last year in which 51 people were killed at two mosques in New Zealand.
This week she will not only graduate as a police officer, but will become the first Muslim officer in New Zealand to don a police-issued hijab as part of her uniform.
A spokesperson said they aimed to create an 'inclusive' service reflecting the country's diverse community. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern had made it clear that her country's spirit of diversity and its secular values will not be shaken by the Christchurch attack.
Zeena has worked with police to design a garment that is both functional for her new role and considerate of her religion, it said.
Zeena says she is proud to represent her community, particularly women. '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,' she said.
Zeena believes that the move will encourage other women to apply to the force as well.
New Zealand Police said work to develop the hijab for its uniform began in late 2018 in response to a request from police staff who visited secondary schools.
The New Zealand police is winning praise for once again upholding diversity within its ranks.
In 2008, New Zealand Police introduced a turban into the uniform, and Nelson Constable Jagmohan Malhi became the first officer to wear it on duty. Until then he had to forgo the turban on duty, despite it being an important part of his Sikh faith.
Other forces such as the Metropolitan Police in London and Police Scotland offer the option of a uniform hijab.
In the UK, the Metropolitan Police in London approved a uniform hijab in 2006 with Police Scotland following in 2016. In Australia, Maha Sukkar of Victoria Police wore a hijab in 2004.
