SALDEF welcomed New York Police Department Commissioner James O’Neill’s announcement of a policy change that allows Sikh officers to wear full turbans. While applauding this step, the nation’s oldest Sikh American civil rights organization also urged further review so all can serve while adhering to their religious beliefs. “We commend Commissioner O’Neill on this positive step to make the NYPD a fully inclusive department,” said Kavneet Singh, a SALDEF board member. “We look forward to reviewing the policy in depth to ensure that Sikhs can serve with their turban and beards intact and with no limitations or restrictions to either.” While the NYPD’s religious accommodation now allows full turbans, there are still restrictions on beards. SALDEF will continue to work with police departments across the country to ensure that Sikhs, and Americans of different faiths, can serve while upholding their religious beliefs. 
For nearly two decades, SALDEF has worked with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies on training and nondiscrimination policies through its Law Enforcement Partnership Program (LEPP). To read more about these efforts, please see: Harris County (TX) Welcomes Sikh American Deputies Washington, DC Becomes First Major City in US to Allow Full-Time Sikh American Police Officers New Police Guidelines Guidelines Welcome Sikh Americans in Riverside (CA)
