Mounties say female members can wear specially developed hijab if they choose

OTTAWA – The RCMP says its female members can wear a hijab if they choose.

Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale’s office says the national police force respects people of all cultural and religious backgrounds.

The move is intended to reflect the country’s diversity and encourage more Muslim women to consider a career with the Mounties.

Goodale’s office says the Toronto and Edmonton police departments, as well as police services in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Norway and some U.S. states, have similar policies.

In 1990, after much debate, the RCMP allowed Sikh members to wear turbans. Sikh members of the Canadian Forces are also allowed to wear turbans.

RCMP Staff Sgt. Julie Gagnon, a spokeswoman for the force, said the force has developed a hijab for its female members.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today