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Zeena Ali: Twitter Lauds New Zealand’s First Police Constable To Wear The Hijab As Part Of Uniform

Manaal Khurram

Zeena Ali, a police constable in New Zealand has become the first woman to wear a hijab as part of her uniform. Breaking stereotypes, she took part in the designing process and was overwhelmed by the support she received from her fellow officers and colleagues. Taking to Instagram, the police academy posted a picture of Ali, sharing, “Constable Zeena Ali is New Zealand Police’s first member to wear a specially designed hijab as part of her uniform.” The post then reflected upon Ali’s decision of covering her head and how it became possible. “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. 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,” said Ali.

 

 

She continued, “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.” During training for her wing, 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 swimsuit. I am thrilled the Police went out of their way to make sure the hijab I have on meets health and safety requirements as well as my own personal needs,” the post concluded,” stated Ali. Twitter users are now reacting to the latest development, with Ali being lauded as first hijab-wearing female police officer in the country’s history. Here are the reactions:

 

 

 

 

 

 

“New Zealand police want more Muslim women involved,” wrote a user. “New Zealand Police introduce hijab to uniform in solidarity with the women from Iran who are jailed for not wearing one,” added another. “Before all the racists-in-denial start frothing at the mouth, read the article, to the end. The officer in the example, a Muslim, wanted to join the force in response to their terror attacks. It’s a good thing. It’s already allowed in the UK, including wearing turbans,” read a post in response to some spiteful trolls. “Represent your communities. New Zealand getting it right once again,” a user penned. A similar post read, “Now, that’s not just “tolerance” (hate that word) it’s active inclusion. Love to see people working together, it’s how it should be!”

 

 

 

 

 

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Many appreciated New Zealand for promoting diversity and accepting people from all walks of life. “New Zealand, this is absolutely refreshingly amazing. Diversity at its strength is this country! I am so proud to see this!” Echoing the sentiments, a user tweeted, “Good on New Zealand!” Weighing in on the news, a user posted on the micro-blogging platform, So proud of the diversity of the New Zealand Police. They have just announced that the Hijab is now an optional part of its uniform for Muslim officers just as the turban has been for our Sikh officers. Moving forward together for a better tomorrow.” Calling it a “wonderful” thing, a user wrote, “It is wonderful to see this respect and recognition of the hijab by the New Zealand Police.” Another social media user referred to it as a step towards change. Using the hashtags #ChangeisComing and #PeopleOfAction, a post read, “New Zealand is out here making some strides! People should take notice of positive changes that happen in countries instead of wanting to stay in their same old ways! Progress means people are being heard and seen! #ChangeisComing#PeopleOfAction.”

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