SALDEF concerned about the effects of new policy on Sikhs, Muslims, Jews Washington DC – December 9, 2008: The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), the oldest and largest Sikh American civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States, has received complaints regarding the State of Indiana’s new driver license photo policy which was implemented today. The new policy incorporates the use of new facial recognition software and involves restrictions on smiling, head coverings, scarves, glasses, and facial hair. The security software is supposedly designed to protect customers from identity fraud. According to some media reports, the new policy contains an exemption for individuals who wear religious head coverings; however, SALDEF has already received a complaint from a Sikh American in Indiana who was neither advised about the exemption nor provided with any waiver documents. On this ground, SALDEF is deeply concerned about the extent to which the new policy is being implemented properly and the manner in which employees are being trained. SALDEF will investigate this matter and attempt to work with the State of Indiana to ensure that the religious rights of Sikh Americans are protected. In the meantime, we encourage all Sikh Americans in Indiana to report problems to SALDEF via email at legal@saldef.org or by telephone at (202) 393-2700.
