Muslim

What cultural / ethnic / religious traditions or beliefs should law enforcement be aware of?

• Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic faith/religion, and its followers are called Muslims.
• Within the Muslim community, there are several ethnic groups and cultures: Arabs, African American, Southeast Asian, Kurds, Somali, etc.
• Muslims pray five times a day and must attend an obligatory prayer at their local mosque every Friday. This mid-day prayer is very important; there may be a large crowd going in and out of mosques during this time.
• Muslims emphasize respect for the law of the land.
• Modesty is an important aspect of the Islamic faith. As such, Muslim women cover their bodies and wear a headscarf to cover their hair. Muslim men cover their bodies and often wear a head cap (kufi) and a beard.

What is the appropriate manner to greet you? (demeanor, non-verbal, body space, handshake, bow, male-female interaction etc.)

• Peaceful greeting is very important (verbal, engage in open communication): "Salaam" or any common form of greeting such as "Hello" "Good morning" etc.
• Be mindful of personal space. Physical contact such as a handshake with opposite gender is discouraged.
• Muslims typically avoid direct eye contact and may gaze downward when talking. It can be seen as disrespectful to speak to someone while making eye contact.
• Most households do not wear shoes within the home. Wear footies or shoe covering prior to entering the home, if available or provided.
• If possible, a same gender officer should interact with family members and/or suspects.

Who should be addressed or acknowledged first? Who is the head of the household?

• The eldest male is considered the head of the household. Typically, a male will answer the door. The head of household may ask his wife or his daughters to cover and put on their full dress and hijab.
• If only women are at home, it is important to give them sufficient time to cover.
• Dress code: Mandatory hijab for women vs. optional kufi for men (man may remove from his head).
• Some Muslim cultures feel extreme discomfort around dogs and may not appreciate them entering their homes.

What is your view / perception of law enforcement? What has been your community's experience with law enforcement?

• Many Muslim immigrants tend to have trust issues with authority because of past traumas living in police states where they experienced religious/cultural persecution. Living in America, they are sometimes still scared, fearful, and paranoid because they have only known authorities to be abusive and corrupt.
• Post 9/11, many Muslims feel they are unfairly targeted or profiled by law enforcement due to religious and racial biases.
• Muslims often feel that there is not enough Muslim representation in law enforcement.