In a first, a police constable has made hijab a part of her official uniform. Taking to Instagram, the police academy posted a picture of constable Zeena Ali and shared, "Constable Zeena Ali is New Zealand Police’s first member to wear a specially designed hijab as part of her uniform."
The post further divulged Zeena's sentiments over the change. "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, adding, "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."
She continued, "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."
"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.
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