Pentagon Urged to Reconsider Military Beard-Shaving Policy for Sikh Service Members and Religious Minorities

The Sikh faith requires followers to maintain uncut hair and beards as an expression of their religious devotion.

New York:

A prominent US lawmaker has called on the Pentagon to reconsider its blanket beard-shaving policy for military service members, highlighting specific concerns for Sikh Americans whose religious beliefs require them to maintain uncut hair and beards.

Congressman Thomas R Suozzi, in a letter to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, emphasized that Sikhs have a long history of serving alongside American forces, dating back to both World Wars. He noted that for Sikhs, military service represents the "Sant-Sipahi" (saint-soldier) ideal that integrates faith with service to one's nation.

"The Sikh religion requires adherents to maintain uncut hair and beards as a symbol of devotion and equality before God," stated the representative from New York's 3rd congressional district.

While acknowledging the importance of military standards and professionalism, Suozzi argued that faith-based and medical accommodations should be preserved. He expressed concern that constituents from Sikh, Muslim, and African American communities fear a potential "beard ban" without proper exemptions could prevent them from serving in uniform.

Suozzi's letter comes in response to Hegseth's recent remarks to American military leadership stating, "We're going to cut our hair, shave our beards, and adhere to standards... The era of unprofessional appearance is over. No more beardos." These comments raised alarm among many "highly motivated" Americans whose religious beliefs or medical conditions necessitate facial hair.

"I believe it is entirely possible to uphold the highest standards while also preserving reasonable, case-by-case accommodations -- ensuring that those willing to serve can do so without compromising their deeply held beliefs," Suozzi wrote.

The Congressman further explained that beard maintenance holds religious significance for Muslim men as a Sunnah Mu'akkadah, representing modesty and devotion. For many African Americans, he noted that hair is intrinsically connected to cultural identity and heritage.

He also highlighted medical considerations, pointing out that shaving can cause pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB), a painful skin condition that disproportionately affects Black service members, who constitute nearly one-fifth of all enlisted personnel.

Suozzi referenced existing protections under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) that already provide a framework for balancing military standards with religious accommodations.

"I am confident your Department can continue maintaining the high standards of appearance and discipline... while preserving these longstanding accommodations under RFRA and related Department of War policies. Such a balanced approach will ensure that those who are both patriotic and devout can continue to serve honourably, without being forced to choose between faith and country," he stated.

This appeal coincides with Suozzi and Republican Representative Young Kim's introduction of the Bipartisan Indian American Heritage Resolution, timed with Diwali celebrations. The resolution honors Indian Americans' contributions across the United States and condemns discrimination against Indian Americans and South Asian communities, including those targeted for their religious identities.

"Indian Americans are an integral part of our community in Southern California and across the United States. Their success stories reflect the very best of the American Dream," said Kim, who represents California's 40th congressional district.

"I'm proud to stand with the Indian American community as we introduce this resolution just in time for Diwali, a moment to honour their achievements and the values that light the way for our nation," she added.

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