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RJ calls turban
diaper; Sikhs call for awareness
WSN Network
Los Angeles: Sikhs in Los Angeles are planning a protest against a
radio station after one of its radio jockeys (RJs) referred to
turbaned Sikhs as wearing a “diaper” on their head.
RJ Al Rantel was
discussing US airport security in his talk show “KABC 790AM” on
September 10 where he said that if his own 80-year-old mother had to
take off her shoes during a security screening, “... then why
shouldn’t a Sikh be required to take off the hat that looks like a
diaper they wear on their heads?” The comment has angered the Sikh
community, which said they would start protests if the RJ did not
apologise. “If he does not correct himself on air, we’re going to
put pressure on him,” said Navraj Singh. “I’m getting calls from
around the country and Sikh temples are collecting signatures,” said
Singh, a resident of Encino, California, adding he was ready to lead
a protest outside the radio station. Singh has already written to
Rantel, challenging him to an on-air debate. Rantel’s team has not
yet responded.
A new Homeland
Security Department policy, which came into force in August, made it
mandatory for Sikhs to remove their turbans at US airports for
security checks.
26
September, 2007
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