indica News Bureau-
Harris County, Texas, Deputy Sheriff Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal, who was killed in the line of duty in September, could be honored by the renaming of a Houston post office after the law man known for working the beat with his articles of faith, including turban and beard, according to the Sikh Coalition.
Texas Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, a Democrat, on Thursday introduced legislation designed rename the post office at 315 Addicks Howell Road in Houston for the 42-year-old married father of three, according to a release from the Sikh Coalition, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit advocating for the rights of Sikhs.
The deputy sheriff’s father thanked fletcher for her work recognizing his son’s work.
“The support and kindness we have received from the Houston community and people around the country has been both inspiring and comforting in this difficult time,” said Pyara Singh Dhaliwal, the deputy sheriff’s father. “My family is grateful to Congresswoman Fletcher for her work to recognize my son’s legacy and his love for the people of this city. We urge everyone, Sikh or not, to remember Sandeep by following his example of seva and committing to doing good for those around you wherever you live.”
The man accused of shooting Dhaliwal, Robert Solis, was arrested the day of the shooting and has been charged with capital murder in the slaying of a peace officer, according to published reports.
Fletcher said renaming the post office would serve as a permanent reminder of Dhaliwal ‘s service and sacrifice.
“Deputy Dhaliwal represented the very best of our community: he worked for equality, connection, and community through his life of service to others,” said Fletcher introducing the bill.
Sim J. Singh, senior manager of policy and advocacy for the Sikh Coalition, praised the congresswoman for her efforts to honor the slain law enforcement office.
“We will continue to work to find ways to honor the deputy’s legacy and ensure that Sikh Americans can serve in all professions, including uniformed public service,” Singh said in the organization’s release.
Dhaliwal, an observant Sikh, left a trucking business to join the sheriff’s office as the first Sikh deputy in Harris County, according to a report by the Texas Tribune. Dhaliwal made national news in 2015 when the sheriff’s office changed its policy to allow him to have facial hair and wear a turban on patrol, according to the Texas Tribune.