MCDONOUGH, Ga., May 6 (UPI) -- A Georgia judge refused to allow a practicing Muslim to wear a cap known as a kufi in the courthouse even though his lawyer said it is religious garb.
Troy Montgomery, who also uses the name Tariq, is fighting a speeding ticket. Judge James Chafin said Thursday for the third time that Montgomery would have to remove the cap to appear in his courtroom, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.
Mawuli Davis, Montgomery's lawyer, described the kufi as a "symbol of humility." It resembles the yarmulke worn by any Orthodox Jewish men.
Chafin said he has been given no proof that Montgomery is actually required to wear the cap at all times.
Georgia adopted a policy allowing religious clothing to be worn in courthouses after a Muslim woman was arrested in 2008 at the Henry County courthouse for refusing to remove her hijab, or headscarf. Chafin said he had been told the policy applies only to women.
