A former British police officer claims he faced suspension and eventual expulsion for questioning Islam during diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training. He recently reached a confidential settlement with North Yorkshire Police, alleging discrimination related to his Christian beliefs.
Luke Salmons, who previously worked as a community support officer, described that the police underwent a series of DEI training sessions in 2023 and 2024. These courses, facilitated by external trainers, were designed to foster discussions on race, religion, and culture. Salmons mentioned that a significant focus was placed on Islam. He recalled an incident during a session in September 2024 when he felt the training shifted from educational to indoctrination, particularly as trainers repeatedly stated, “Islam is a religion of peace.”
He expressed to FOX News Digital, “It felt less like training and more like indoctrination.” In a later session led by a Muslim sergeant, Salmons respectfully asked questions regarding the Gaza conflict and jihad. After their discussion, the sergeant invited him for coffee to continue the conversation.
However, just two days later, he found himself suspended following the incident. In a meeting with a police inspector, Salmons was told he was no longer welcome in the team and must leave the force, with the inspector stating, “I don’t like your beliefs.”
Salmons insisted he hadn’t done anything wrong but ultimately was advised by union representatives to apologize to resolve the issue. He remarked on the underlying fear within the police regarding open discussions, particularly around minorities and Islam, saying, “There’s certainly a fear within the force across the UK.”
After about eight months of investigation, Salmons resigned, given the strain on his family. Shortly thereafter, he learned that a disciplinary panel had categorized his actions as “gross misconduct,” thereby barring him from the police force.
With legal support, he successfully appealed this decision, backed by the Chief Constable of North Yorkshire Police, who recognized concerns about his conduct but determined it did not rise to serious misconduct. Salmons was eventually removed from the restricted list but pursued legal action against the police for alleged religious discrimination, pointing to remarks from the inspector.
Salmons shared an interaction where the inspector explicitly stated, “I don’t like your beliefs,” which he interpreted as a direct affront to his Christian faith. “This is discrimination against me and my faith, and that in itself is gross misconduct,” he articulated.
Recently, North Yorkshire Police reached a settlement with him. Although he felt satisfied with the resolution, he noted a lack of apology or reinstatement. “I’m really a little disappointed,” he admitted. He encouraged others in similar situations not to give up: “If you’ve done nothing wrong, if you’re a Christian at work, stand up for the truth, stand up for justice, stand up for your faith.”
In their statement, North Yorkshire Police maintained they are an “inclusive employer” that respects all beliefs, stating that expressions of those beliefs should be made with, you know, respect and courtesy, aligning with the force’s values.
Furthermore, they emphasized the importance of understanding the communities they serve, aiming to ensure that everyone, regardless of race, faith, or other characteristics, feels included.
The police declined to provide further comments when approached by FOX News Digital.
