In the United States, two women who were compelled to remove their hijabs have been awarded a settlement of $17.5 million

New York City agreed to pay $17.5 million to two Muslim women who sued the NYPD. They said the police made them take off their hijabs for mugshots during their arrests, which violated their rights. The settlement also covers others who had to remove religious clothing for photos. It’s not final yet, waiting for a judge’s approval.

After taking out fees, the total payment will be around $13.1 million. If more than 3,600 people apply, the amount might increase. Each person could get between $7,824 and $13,125.

The lawsuit was filed in 2018 by Jamilla Clark and Arwa Aziz. They felt embarrassed and hurt when police made them remove their hijabs for mugshots. They were arrested for reasons they thought were unfair.

Jamilla Clark felt very uncomfortable when she had to take off her hijab, feeling like she was naked. Arwa Aziz’s lawyers said it was like a strip search.

The NYPD changed its rules because of the lawsuit. Since 2020, people can keep their head coverings on during mugshots as long as their faces are visible. This applies to all religious headwear, like Jewish wigs and Sikh turbans.

A spokesperson for New York City’s law department said the settlement respects both religion and law enforcement.

Albert Fox Cahn, the lawyer for Clark and Aziz, said this settlement is important for protecting people’s rights. He believes it shows the NYPD can’t ignore people’s First Amendment rights.

Repurposed article originally purposed in She The People