California: AB1964 Finally Allows Turbaned Sikh to Join Police Academy

FREMONT, California, USA—Amandeep Singh has been trying to join the Police Academy for almost seven years now but was not allowed to because of his Sikh articles of faith (specifically, his turban and uncut beard). Amandeep Singh had testified before the Committee on Labor and Employment at the California State Assembly about his experiences as a Sikh trying to join law enforcement. Singh’s testimony was an essential factor in helping pass the “AB1964,” a law that provides protection against religious discrimination for workers in California.

Fortunately the AB1964 law was passed and Amandeep Singh’s dream to start a law enforcement career became a reality. Amandeep Singh is now currently enrolled at the Yuba City College Police Academy and hopes to work as a uniformed police officer when he graduates.