In April 2024, four Muslim women were arrested during peaceful pro-Palestinian protests on the campus of Arizona State University. During their arrest and detainment, officers forcibly removed their hijabs—religious head coverings that these women wear as an act of faith, modesty, and personal dignity. For more than 24 hours, they were exposed to men in a way that deeply violated their religious beliefs and caused lasting emotional harm.

According to police reports and court filings, the women begged officers not to remove their hijabs. But law enforcement—including ASU police and the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office—ignored their pleas. The Sheriff's Office even has a written policy to make "reasonable accommodations" for religious headwear. Yet these basic protections were denied.

This is not just a mistake—it’s a violation of the First Amendment, which protects religious freedom for everyone, regardless of faith or political stance. It’s a violation of human dignity. And it’s part of a broader pattern of ignoring the rights of peaceful protesters, particularly those from marginalized communities.

No one should have to choose between participating in peaceful protest and having their faith disrespected. No one should be stripped of their religious identity by the very institutions sworn to protect our freedoms.

We call on the following leaders to take immediate accountability and corrective action: Sheriff Jerry Sheridan of Maricopa County, ASU President Michael Crow, The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors.

These officials must:

• Publicly acknowledge the harm done
• Update and enforce clear protections for religious attire during arrest and detainment
• Commit to meaningful policy reforms and cultural competency training for law enforcement agencies involved

Sign this petition to stand with these women—and with everyone who believes that religious freedom should never be compromised, especially not at the hands of those in power.

Photo: Patrick Breen/The Republic