Thread by @SikhProf

Four innocent Sikhs were kicked off a plane today because this woman was scared of how they looked.

Please watch and share this video to understand how hate hurts us all.

(see thread below for more info on the Sikh religion and identity)

Sikhs make up the world's fifth largest religion with nearly 30 million followers worldwide. Yet, few people seem to know about Sikhi.

So let me offer a few basic insights as a practitioner and scholar.

Guru Nanak founded Sikhi about 500 years ago in the South Asian region of Punjab. He saw a world suffering from inequity (eg, patriarchy, casteism), much of which was institutionalized by religious leadership.

He rejected these norms and established a new path based on oneness.

Guru Nanak fiercely believed in the oneness of all creation and therefore, the interconnectedness of all beings. And he believed that enlightenment came from our awakening to this reality.

"All beings have the same Creator. Let me never forget that One." -- Guru Nanak

Guru Nanak taught that one who truly saw the creation as divine would devote their lives to serving those around them. Sikhs call this commitment to justice 'seva,' and it's a beautiful tradition that's alive and well today. Here's just one example: scoopwhoop.com/khalsa-aid-cam…

The impulse of service (seva), in Sikhi, comes from a recognition of oneness and love. If I am you, and you are me, of course I would want to reduce your suffering however I can. We are all connected. Our happiness and liberation is intertwined.

Here's a quick read for those seeking to learn more about Sikhs.

Remember, knowledge is power -- and ignorance fuels hate. ✌🏾❤️ 👳🏾‍♂️

theconversation.com/who-are-the-si…

Update: It's not clear if this woman's bigoted comments are the reason why the Sikhs were no longer on the flight when the passengers re-boarded (though there's no doubt that she made them). Will continue digging and will share as I learn more.

Meanwhile, watching NBA player Jamal Crawford play 🏀 with a Sikh kid will bring some 🤗 to your day.

Yes, Jess Hilarious racially profiled the Sikh passengers on her plane. I wonder where she learned it was okay to single out travelers based on their appearance <cough cough @TSA> 🤔
religionnews.com/2019/03/18/jes…