Muslim Women Reach $17.5m Settlement in Hijab Removal Case Against NYPD

The New York City Police Department has reached a historic $17.5 million settlement in response to a class action case filed by two Muslim women, Jamilla Clark and Arwa Aziz. The case, originating from 2018, centered on allegations of religious discrimination and privacy violations after the women were compelled to remove their hijabs for police mugshots.

Policy Reforms and Compensation

The legal action resulted in essential policy changes, permitting the wearing of hijabs in police photographs. This settlement, which is currently awaiting court endorsement, is designed to provide compensation to more than 3,600 eligible individuals impacted by similar incidents.

Jamilla Clark, one of the courageous women at the forefront of this battle, expressed her relief and pride in achieving justice. She voiced hopes that the settlement will serve as a deterrent against the recurrence of such distressing experiences for others.