Michigan police department issues officers' patch with Arabic and English text

Michigan's Dearborn Heights Police Department is issuing a police patch that includes both English and Arabic text that is optional for officers.

The department announced the patch Wednesday. It has the Michigan state seal and features the words "DEARBORN HEIGHTS" and "POLICE" in both languages, according to Fox News. The patch was designed by local police officer Emily Murdoch.

The Middle Eastern and Northern African population of Dearborn Heights was 39% as of 2023, according to Fox 2 Detroit. The news outlet also says the patch is the first such in the U.S. 

"The Dearborn Heights Police Department is proud to share a new optional patch that our officers may wear as part of their uniform," the agency said in a since-deleted Facebook post.

"This patch was created by Officer Emily Murdoch, who designed it to reflect and honor the diversity of our community – especially the many residents of Arabic descent who call Dearborn Heights home," the department continued. "By incorporating Arabic script alongside English, this patch represents unity, respect, and our shared commitment to service."

The department also said the new design is another example of the way the department can celebrate the "rich cultures that make our city unique."

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.