Don't Force Muslim Women to Remove Head Coverings in Court!
- by: Chris Wolverton
- recipient: Australian Courts
An Australian Muslim women refused to testify in a recent trial because the judge insisted that she remove her religious head covering. While Muslims only make up 2% of the Australian population, and a much smaller subset of these choose to wear head coverings that obscure the face, this trial shows how forcing women to choose between their faith and their state can adversely affect the judicial process.
Women who choose to wear a burqa (which covers the entire body and face) or a niqab (which covers the entire body and face except for the eyes) do so because they put their faith above all else, including their country and societal norms. Most people remove their hats in a courtroom, but exceptions are made for certain religious coverings such as Jewish yarmulkes, Sikh turbans, and even hijabs, a less restrictive Muslim head covering that covers a woman's hair while exposing her full face. Exceptions should also be made for burqas and niqabs. Though covering the face may make it more difficult to interpret a witness' testimony, it is still more important for the judge and jury to hear as much information as possible before making a decision.
A judge would not silence a witness with facial paralysis, a full-body cast or other factors that prevent the assessment of body language and facial cues. Why silence an otherwise willing witness over her choice to practice their faith in the courtroom?
Please sign the petition to urge Australian Courts to let Muslim women wear their usual head coverings in court.
I am concerned that conflicts over religious garments are preventing criminals from being brought to justice.
An Australian Muslim women refused to testify in a recent trial because the judge insisted that she remove her religious head covering. While Muslims only make up 2% of the Australian population, and a much smaller subset of these choose to wear head coverings that obscure the face, this trial shows how forcing women to choose between their faith and their state can adversely affect the judicial process.
Women who choose to wear a burqa (which covers the entire body and face) or a niqab (which covers the entire body and face except for the eyes) do so because they put their faith above all else, including their country and societal norms. Most people remove their hats in a courtroom, but exceptions are made for certain religious coverings such as Jewish yarmulkes, Sikh turbans, and even hijabs, a less restrictive Muslim head covering that covers a woman's hair while exposing her full face. Exceptions should also be made for burqas and niqabs. Though covering the face may make it more difficult to interpret a witness' testimony, it is still more important for the judge and jury to hear as much information as possible before making a decision.
A judge would not silence a witness with facial paralysis, a full-body cast or other factors that prevent the assessment of body language and facial cues. Why silence an otherwise willing witness over her choice to practice their faith in the courtroom?
I respectfully urge you to let Muslim women wear their usual head and/or body coverings in court. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider this petition.
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