Media statement from Joris de Bres, Race Relations Commissioner, Human Rights Commission
3 September 2009

The Muslim community needs reassurance that wearing a headscarf in the public gallery of a court is perfectly acceptable, says Race Relations Commissioner Joris de Bres.

He was commenting on media reports that a woman was barred from the Hastings District Court on Tuesday unless she removed her headscarf.

“I can’t imagine a nun being told to remove such attire,” he said, “and the same should apply to others who wear head coverings for religious reasons, such as Muslims, Sikhs and Jews.”

“The account of what happened is somewhat disputed and a clear statement from the court of what actually occurred would be helpful.”

The judge is quoted as saying he had made a mistake.

Mr de Bres said he had spoken with Chief District Court Judge Russell Johnston this morning and discussed the need to reassure Muslim and other communities on the matter.

The Human Rights Commission was also seeking to contact the woman concerned to obtain a direct account from her and to offer advice on her human rights in this situation.

ENDS

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