DISCRIMINATION IN THE USA TOO

An American Muslim is suing the New York Police Department for barring him from joining the force because of his Arabic origin and Muslim faith, a case rights activists say symbolises a surge in job discrimination since the 9/11. Said Hajem, a 39-year-old naturalised US citizen originally from Morocco, decided to pursue a career with the NYPD after knowing about the need for Arabic speakers on the force. He passed the entrance exams with high scores and was cleared to join the Police Academy. He even received a congratulatory letter from the Police Commissioner. But at the interview with Ricardo Ramkissoon, who was in charge of reviewing the application, the officer refused to take any personal references with Middle Eastern names of Hajem’s friends and neighbours. Civil rights advocates believe Hajem’s case is not so uncommon in post 9/11 America.