“We are pleased that the nation’s fifth-largest police department has significantly expanded the ability for Sikhs and other religious minorities to serve with their articles of faith intact,” said Nikki Singh, Sikh Coalition Policy and Advocacy Manager.
“We hope this policy change encourages other departments nationwide to implement inclusive accommodation policies so that those who wish to serve are able to do so.”
"Deputy Dhaliwal exemplified the ideal of seva, or selfless service to his community," explained Manpreet K. Singh, Sikh Coalition board member, Houston community leader, and Deputy Dhaliwal family spokesperson.
"This policy change from the Houston Police Department sends the message that practicing one's religion and serving your community can go hand in hand."
In tribute to Deputy Dhaliwal’s service, on October 2nd, the Sikh Coalition worked with 98 former and current Sikh servicemembers and law enforcement officials to deliver letters to the U.S. Department of Defense and national police agencies advocating for changes to accommodation policies for religious minorities.
These efforts are part of our ongoing work to ensure all religious minorities are able to freely serve with their religious articles of faith in tact.
The Houston Police Department has become the latest major law enforcement agency to improve their religious accommodation policies and joins other large law enforcement agencies like the NYPD, Chicago Police Department, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to make similar changes in recent years.