Public Advocate Bill de Blasio and I released joint statements today regarding the candidacy of
NYPD recruit Fishel Litzman, who was dismissed from the force
because of his beard, which he maintains in accordance with religious beliefs.
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| Fishel Litzman |
I have always vocally supported the NYPD and the sensational job
they do. This is one instance where I think a misinterpreted
technicality is getting in the way of doing the right thing. Fishel
Litzman joined the police academy with a beard. He continues to wear a
beard not as a preference of style but rather out of respect to his
religious tenets. Here in New York City, we respect cultural diversity
and this is a terrific opportunity to express that respect. Litzman’s
beard won’t stop him from performing his duties effectively and
efficiently. I call on the NYPD to reconsider Mr. Litzman’s candidacy
for the police department.
"The NYPD does a tremendous job protecting our city, but it has done
itself a profound disservice by disqualifying Fishel Litzman," said the Public Advocate. "By many
accounts, Mr. Litzman is one of the most impressive candidates in his
class, and should not be barred from serving on account of his religious
observance. We can only maintain
the best-qualified police force in the world if we evaluate candidates
like Mr. Litzman on their merits. I urge the Department to reconsider
his candidacy."
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