BAKERSFIELD, CA (KP)—The Singh family based in Kern County alleged that the informal apology by UPS was appreciated however it did not carry much weight. The family that was recently called ‘terrorist’ by a driver asked that UPS submit an official apology in the media to ensure that such a mistake does not take place in the future.
UPS staff had visited the Singh family after the incident and apologized in person. They alleged that UPS respected different religions and will take strong measures against the driver responsible for the inappropriate remark. UPS regional officials told the Singh family that it recruits a large number of temporary workers to assist during the busy holiday season and the driver that had delivered the package was hired very recently on a temporary basis.
The Bakersfield Singh family appreciated UPS' concerns; however, they held that if UPS comes out openly in public and apologizes, that would greatly benefit the Sikh Community as it has to cope with similar incidents on a day to day basis. They told the press that after hearing from UPS the week the incident took place, they have not heard back from any of its staff members.
The Singh family termed the incident as very unfortunate but wished to use it as a means to raise awareness of the Sikh faith. The Sikhs wear turbans and keep uncut hair to fulfill their religious duty, but because of their visible identity, they are often harassed and troubled by ignorant people. Such incidents saw a great increase especially after the 9/11 attacks even though the Sikh Community was in no way involved in any terror incidents and are not Muslims.
