Sikh’s Turban Sparks Controversy, Rejected Donation


Published/Last Modified on Thursday, November 20, 2008 11:51 AM CST

Lance Martin, Daily Herald Senior Staff Writer

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ROANOKE RAPIDS — Between the he said, he said banter of who was belligerent, comes the issue of respect of religions and policy.

Gary Khera’s donation to a local non-profit group was declined because he refused to remove his turban, a symbol of the Sikh religion.

Khera, a U.S. and Indian citizen, came to the Union Mission with his wife of 23 years, Gwendolyn, this week to donate cash or food. He said he was prepared to give a cash donation to feed at least 50 people.

He usually mails his donation, but on Tuesday he decided to go in person.

While the Union Mission claims Khera, 54, was disruptive, it doesn’t deny they refused his donation.

The sign on the door leading to the lobby of the mission on Roanoke Avenue, written in 2-inch tall letters, tells visitors to turn off cell phones, forbids food or drink and requests all males remove headcovers.

The turban, however, is part of Khera’s religion and is worn all day and he said while he respects the policy, the Supreme Court has ruled religious coverings do not have to be removed.

He explained he was there to make a donation and the in-take director, Florence Williams, asked him to remove the turban. “When she said that I was really upset,” he said.

Williams then declined to talk to him and talked to his wife.

“I asked if there was anyone else I could talk to,” Khera said, and he was told the Rev. Ron Weeks, executive director of the Mission, was available.

Khera said he was escorted to the alcove between the front door and the door leading into the lobby. He said Weeks would not shake his hand.

Khera said he calmly tried to explain he was there to give a donation and that Williams wanted him to remove his turban. Weeks explained the policy and Khera was told if he didn’t follow the policy, he could take the donation elsewhere.

The only difference in the recollection of the conversation by both parties is that Weeks and Williams say Khera was belligerent. In turn, Khera describes the Union Mission officials as belligerent.

“We have policy and he didn’t want to abide by it,” Weeks said yesterday. “He gave the receptionist a bad time and decided to do a vengeance thing because he didn’t get his own way. This was nothing to do with the turban, nothing to do with his faith.”

The policy, Weeks said, “Is that’s how we honor the Lord. It was not religion with him, he tried to make it religion. It was clear he wanted to argue and fight.”

Asked if he knew Khera, a Roanoke Rapids resident and business owner, made yearly donations to the Mission by mail, Weeks said, “If he wants to continue donating it’s best he does that or stop and donate to someone else.”

Asked if the Mission’s board of directors was aware of the incident, Weeks said, “This probably happens once a month. It’s not a big deal to us.” Jeff Holm, chairman of the Mission’s board, told the Daily Herald this morning that until he had more information he would not comment on the incident.

Weeks said he didn’t believe the Union Mission was trying to deny Khera’s freedom of religion. If that is the case, Weeks said, “He’s trying to deny us ours. That’s his problem, not ours. He made the choice and didn’t like the outcome.”

Williams said she was not trying to disrespect Khera’s faith. “I’m sorry it happened,” she said. “The sign says on the door all males take off their (headcovers). This is a church.”

While Khera says it was Union Mission staff who were belligerent to him, he adds that it is not the point, it is the respect for his religion at issue.

The Sikh religion teaches peace, he said, which is one of the reasons he applied for citizenship. “I’m proud to be a U.S. citizen,” he said. “You can tell the world what actual freedom is. You can practice any religion. You can have your dreams come true and make a difference in your family and your community.”

Gwendolyn, who is dedicated to her husband’s culture and religion, said she was upset when her husband was asked to remove his turban. “The people are friendly,” she said of the temple she goes to with her husband. “They treat you as a family. The kids learn a lot. If you go to the temple you feel good, they respect you, they treat you like their own.”

Khera said he has never been targeted for his turban before except in the aftermath of 9/11. When he visited the U.S. Supreme Court no one asked him to remove the turban.

No one can question his patriotism, he said, and he speaks proudly of Sikh participation in World War I and World War II. “They are the best fighters,” he said. “In World War II and World War I, the British used them all over the world to fight.”

His son, he said, is joining the Air Force. “It’s his dream to be an Air Force pilot.”

His daughter started a newspaper at KIPP Pride High in Gaston and is raising money to keep needy students in school. “In our tradition in every temple, people of all races and religions sit on the same row and eat the same food.”

While these temples are ready to fight for Khera on a legal level, he has declined to press the matter. “I have at least 10 e-mails from the temple, from legal defense telling me what to do,” he said. “I’m not looking to fight back so we can stay here and keep peace.”

Khera will talk with the Halifax County Department of Social Services about another place to make his donation.

“I just want to be heard,” he said. “We need more education about other religions. In our temple we read everything, we don’t go by one. We do everything in praise of God.”

Copyright © 2009 Roanoke Daily Herald

Comments

    Uncovering the Truth wrote on Jan 29, 2009 12:46 PM:

    " ----------------------------------------

    Many Jewish people and Muslim's both cover their heads during prayer, with similar looking head coverings. Both follow the Old Testament.

    Having had this discussion in the past, it is safe to believe that male Christian's in the West take off their hats in buildings to show respect for women but not as a part of the belief system in Christianity?

    Sikhs as a part of their belief system, cannot cut their hair, and keep their heads covered as a sign of giving thanks to the Almighty Truth(God), for the gift of hair. This applies to both Sikh men and women. Sikhism is a unique religion, it believes that God is One, in all creation, and existence, known and unknown, the Journey to finding God(Waheguru) is to beg for the Truth.

    ---------------------------------------- "

    slim silly wrote on Nov 28, 2008 12:31 PM:

    " for a place like that wonderful Halifax county and great town RR that send people to prison that haven't committed any crimes is disgusting. and stand solid in letting the deed stand and not trying to rectify the wrongs of its court system.my information is solid I know this person closely.they have nothing to gain except self respect. they have already done all the time in prison.ya'll really have nerve excuse me real amercian's? over step supreme courts do what you like sounds more like the KKK "

    tameka wrote on Nov 27, 2008 6:08 PM:

    " Get over it and move on!!! "

    confused wrote on Nov 27, 2008 3:26 PM:

    " The Union Mission is not a church! It has a chapel in it, but the rest of it is a shelter & office & storage & kitchen etc. "

    Who do they help wrote on Nov 27, 2008 3:23 PM:

    " I read ordinary joe's comment and that is bad. The UM seems to deny most people any help. How can they charge so much for the donations in their store? "

    Former Resident wrote on Nov 27, 2008 12:13 PM:

    " As a former resident I have to say I am proud of Roanoke Rapids for a change. First, Mr. Khera went to the mission, he should respect the rules of the mission. If he expects everyone to respect his religion, he needs to respect theirs.
    Secondly, if Mr. Khera is so religous, would he own a strip club. Don't hide behind your religion when its convenient. If you are religious, then be religous in everything you do.
    Maybe I don't understand his religion. Maybe it allows you to watch young women strip and profit from it as long as you wear the turbin.
    Mr. Khera and all you bleeding hearts, get over it! The mission says no head coverings. Either take it off or don't come it, your choice.

    Does anyone know how much he was planning on donating? I am sure we can raise that amount ourselves. I will surely contribute. "

    Outlaw wrote on Nov 27, 2008 8:27 AM:

    " You know what gets me is this Story has 40 something soundoffs yet the one where the person was raped by a repeat offender only has six you people should be ashamed fighting for some gentlemens club owners rights making it world news yet you have a rapist who has really tooken someones rights away and no one seems to care well least not as much as they do about some guy in a turban's rights cause someone asked him to take off his hat well boo-who "

    sheneta wrote on Nov 27, 2008 2:09 AM:

    " I think it is a real shame that you would turn down a donation that could help so many who really need it because of a religious power struggle. Granted it shows respect for a man to remove his hat when he enters a room, however, if his religion requires that his head remains covered then you should be tolerant of his beliefs. To demand that he remove it, because that is what your religion dictates, shows an utter lack of respect and tolerance for his religious beliefs. After all it's not like he was there to attend church services. He was simply there for a brief moment to give to those in need. Couldn't you have taken the time to learn why he couldn't remove his turban and have simply made an exception based on respecting his beliefs, just as you want others to respect yours. Afterall Romans 12:18 says that "As far as it depends upon you, be peaceable with all men. Jesus preached to and gave his life for all mankind. I wonder if he would have turned them away because they wore a turban. "

    Confused wrote on Nov 26, 2008 3:37 PM:

    " Both men talked of religious freedom and respect for their religion but isnt it strange that neither would respect the others religion!? "

    ALVIN wrote on Nov 26, 2008 12:56 PM:

    " My bible says we are to obey the laws of the land and I believe the Supreme Court qualifies. Mr. Khera the Court says does not have to remove his headpiece. Rev. Weeks, I believe, should be replaced. "

    What wrote on Nov 26, 2008 2:27 AM:

    " I praise both men for standing up for there beliefs u either have to look at this as both being right or wrong not one being right and the other wrong in that case the other ones beliefs would have been wronged either way and for the ones saying its education they dont allow turbans or jesus in school so that wont help and as far as the donation dirty money from a strip club "

    He doesnt have a clue wrote on Nov 25, 2008 8:20 PM:

    " He should never turn away any contribution. Maybe he should cut his salary in these lean times. This article was 2 months ago.

    http://www.rrdailyherald.com/articles/2008/09/09/news/news.txt "

    cjacobs wrote on Nov 25, 2008 7:48 PM:

    " The bible says to "Do unto others as they would do unto you." Rev Weeks and Ms Williams you need to start back reading the bible from the beginning until you both get the understanding from it. "Study to show yourself approve". What you've both did was wrong in God's eyesight and it was discriminating. "What you do to others will comeback to you 2 fold".."What you both do today will affect your tomorrow"..You both need to step down from your positions and let someone who has heart have it..I tip my hat to Gary. Continue doing what you do best which is to help the needy and God will bless you. "

    Doug wrote on Nov 25, 2008 1:47 PM:

    " The sign on the Union Mission say it serves the Roanoke Valley; it should be only some of the Roanoke Valley "

    Ordinary Joe wrote on Nov 25, 2008 11:27 AM:

    " I tried to be a good samartian a few months ago and convinced a homeless man to let me take him to the Union Mission so he could get help. I was shocked that they turned him away. Said he needed a photo ID and some other things and that he had to be there earlier in the day, and just came up with tons of reasons to deny him help. But during that a woman came from the kitchen with some freshly baked something that she told Rev. Weeks she had made special for him to take home. That food was supposed to be for the needy. I decided then that the Union Mission doesn't deserve my support. "

    S Dhillon wrote on Nov 25, 2008 10:31 AM:

    " All this happened because of lack of knowledge about other religions. I would expect any religious leader to study other religions and their belief. A male with Hat is considered to be disrespectful, but religious symbol headcovers are worn ALL the time. It is very disrespectful to ask a Turban wearing Sikh to remove his turban. Mr. Khera belongs to Sikh religion which is 5th largest religion in the world. Sikhism is newer religion (500 years) and teaches to be very respectful to all other religions. We can only hope that people learn about other religions in the world and respect them even if that is not their own Faith. "

    whatswrong wrote on Nov 24, 2008 10:26 PM:

    " I believe it should have been handled more tactfully from the get go. I understand the person at the desk has been abrupt and rude to others coming in. But then RR really is lacking in good customer service at most area "businesses". People are often rude here and we accpet it so it becomes the NORM. What I'd like to know is why headcoverings can't be permitted in the LOBBY, which is where I understand this man was----not in the dining hall or prayer areas. Men should remove their hats in any restaurant or church in OUR culture, so it's ok to ask for that to be done, but in a LOBBY? That's where it went wrong in my opinion. I don't think he tried to enter those areas of dining and prayer. "

    jack underwood wrote on Nov 24, 2008 2:54 PM:

    " I don't believe the vows for becoming a U.S. citizen allow one to claim dual citizenship. How can this man be an Indian and a U.S. citizen?

    Then again, why was citizenship even mentioned in the article?

    Finally, both parties in this silly debate are proving why narrow and intense interpertations of ones beliefs can, in fact, cause one to violate the same beliefs they are trying to defend.

    Kiss and make up...... "

    Clarence wrote on Nov 24, 2008 9:02 AM:

    " Mission:
    I was a supporter of the Mission. I believe an apology is in order and prayfully the wounds will heal for future support. "

    Clarence wrote on Nov 24, 2008 8:58 AM:

    " What ????
    Union Mission not accepting donations, President elect Obama being blamed for the economic mess. What have we become as a people? Sad situation! "

    Child of God wrote on Nov 24, 2008 7:42 AM:

    " Is Mr. Khera not a child of God as we all are? I feel it is a shame that an organization that claims to be Christian could not accept someone who is different than they are! We as Christians are supposed to live as Jesus lived. What would Jesus have done?! I agree with those that have stated that the mission is always stating they need donations, yet they refused one because someone is of a different faith! Also, I feel the persons working at the mission missed an opportunity to witness the LOVE OF GOD! Our God is a God of grace, forgiveness, love, and peace! Should we not show God's love by showing kidness and acceptance of other people? God loves everyone and sent his son Jesus to die for our sins! This is the great news we are to share with everyone! Instead, those at the mission sent a person away that was willing to give a donation to help other children of God. What message does this send to other people in the community? "

    Are you crazy wrote on Nov 23, 2008 9:15 PM:

    " To everyone saying that rules are rules you are just proving how ignorant to other cultures and other religious practices you are. A turban is NOT a hat, it is a religious head dress. No one has a right to treat people the way this man was treated. We are closing in on the end of 2008 and it saddens me how ignorant and closed minded our community is. "

    Mike wrote on Nov 23, 2008 6:13 PM:

    " I wonder if my regular contributions to the Mission have been distributed as discriminately ?. I'm sure there are other organizations who have a greater tolerance for religous beliefs who will gladly accept my donations. "

    Keith wrote on Nov 23, 2008 5:30 PM:

    " You know, reading some of the comments on this page of people defending the actions of the employees at the Union Mission, it is utterly clear by the comments and the alarming number of mispelled words that those people are really ignorant. I have some advice; 1) read a book and expand your mind, 2) realize that this country has become very diverse, and we must learn to accept cultural differences as just that....differences, not disrespect. I have grown tired of people wanted to quote the bible and interpret what they have said to fit their own small-brained, backwoods mentality...and 3) If we are going to get this country back on its feet, we need to work together for the sake of all our children, because when they become adults, they will encounter an even more culturally diverse population of people, and if you don't teach them to respect our differences, you are doing them an injustice! "

    AnnaB wrote on Nov 23, 2008 3:38 PM:

    " If Mr.Khera is a owner of a topless club, then,if anything,he should have been thanked but told the Mission could not accept the donation.He is generous to offer donations, but, I'm not sure it's acceptable for a Christian church to accept funds from his establishment, churhes in Roanoke Rapids have turned down donations that were lottery winnings,so, is there any difference? Yes, the ideal life would be that all religions, all races could live in harmony, accept one another as human beings, but,it's not going to happen, never has, never will, even in Roanoke Rapids,but, we can be respectful. Mr. Khera, if you're reading this comment, there are many avenues that would accept your donations, with or without your head covering, may God bless you and those that benefit from it. "

    AJ wrote on Nov 23, 2008 1:55 PM:

    " I wonder if the Mission realises what has happened. In one act they have turned away a regular contributor, sullied their reputation and possibly turned away other contributors and further added to the image of Halifax County as a backwater (ignorant) town. Unfortunately, this made state news. When considering the option of allowing the gentleman to make his contribution and leave, was not allowing Mr. Khera to enter worth it? "

    Disgusted wrote on Nov 23, 2008 1:02 PM:

    " Once again, this town is getting the state spotlight, and thanks to bloggers and internet news feeds alike, national news interest. How many times must Roanoke Rapids embarrass itself before progress is made? Mr. Khera is protected under the United States constitution and United States Supreme Court rulings indicating that he may wear his religious headwear and never, not once, be required to take it off. The Union Mission, being the 'Christian' organization it claims to be, needn't cry in the local papers how shelves are empty anymore. Religious 50 people are feeling the effects of the thwarted donation. Reverend Weeks, a man of God, needs to observe the religious freedoms in this country, as they apply to him, too. Catholic priests aren't required to remove their neckbands, Christians aren't required to remove their crucifix necklaces, etc. While this particular newspiece is unacceptable, I find it unsurprising, nonetheless.

    Just to clarify, the Union Mission serves a wonderful purpose and is there to help those in need, whether it be serving a hot meal or finding inner peace through Christianity. Don't let the actions of one intolerant man judge your outlook on the organization as a whole. "

    common sence wrote on Nov 23, 2008 2:19 AM:

    " It appears that the man in the turban was saying, "my religious beliefs trump your religious beliefs." It only seems like common sence, that if I visited another man's house of worship, I would abide by his rules or either depart, not stand there and debate my religious rules vervus his. "

    US Citizen wrote on Nov 22, 2008 7:48 PM:

    " Rules are rules. Why are people always wanting to be the exception? Just follow the rules. If he indeed just wanted to make a donation why is he seeking all the publicity? If peop[le give form their heart they do not seek public approval. "

    Lauri wrote on Nov 22, 2008 9:32 AM:

    " A rule is a rule. If Mr. Khera's sole intention was just to help the Union Mission, he would not have aksed them to bend the rules for him, he would have continued to send his money through the mail. No his intentions are to cause conflict. Would a male be allowed in their temple without a turban on? I support Rev Weeks decision to stand up for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and that is his right as an American? "

    Donald Faucette wrote on Nov 22, 2008 9:03 AM:

    " I have ben reading the artical about the incident concerening Gery Khera. I am very displeased with the way the mission is being handled today. If the forfathers pf the mission new what was going on they would turn in there graves with embaresment. the union mission was founded to help people in need, to help people have a place to stay that was homless a place to help them find GOD to get off drugs and alchol. A group of pastors in this city Got together marched the propety anoited it with oil and asked G od to give them the property to help people. the Union mission today is not about that but control did Jesus not wear a prayer shaw to the synague (or church)people need jesu and love that suspose to be part of the job love goes a long way. It breaks my heart to read and hear how a control issue is going to be the reason people will not make donations. This means prople r going to go hungry not get clothing or food because the mission has forgotten the mission of the mission. I ask what would Jesus have done? the job of the mission is to help the needy not destroy the moral of the people. Peole somtimes takes a wrong turn or dont understand. The bible says to love one another,do unto others as you would have them to do you. Now please tell me why should a turban mean the differnce between 50 people eating or not eating.The mission needs to stop look at whats going on do away with these man made pridefull rules and seek God on what should be done the job of the mission is to manely bring people to the loving saving knowledge of Jesus Christ not burden people down with simple controling rules. Jesus said go ye to all the world preach the Gospel. Go to the highways and byways and compell the people to come in as they are it didnt say if they changed this or that. the song says i come just as i am.this breaks my heart i am an out reach minister and it breaks my heart that people are trying to take the place of God and hurt people @ that expence.It is mr.khera' right to wear his head wear. Lets put God back in the mission and help people again. this should be a time when we come together and and do the work of our lord help people not destroy them futher. I know it makes people mad of what took place but i ask the citesins of roanoke rapids does to wrongs make a right? People in need shouldnt have to suffer because the mission is so caught up in the rules they will allow people in need to suffer.we need a new mission at the mission or should i say we need to bring back the purpose of the mission. The job of the mission is suspose to be the comission of the bible not mans notice (great comission) look co-mission.Again I ask WHAT WOULD JESUS HAVE DONE? We need to get on our knees and pray, seek God and go back to the basics of the bible. AS a former resident and chaplian at the mission this realy breaks my heart when i read what was being said in sound off my eyes filled with tears.Because the actions of one man is going to hurt many. please pray that the mission will stop revalueate and get back to the bible and the mission of the church and get the love of christ back in the mission "

    ronnie1 wrote on Nov 22, 2008 8:31 AM:

    " It is a shame that the Mission turned Mr. Khera away when he was trying to help others in need. Now families are going to lose out on much needed help because of the Mission's decision. I always thought that different religions would be able to respect each others beliefs. Just like people of different color and nationalities should be able to respect each other as human beings. The Mission owes Mr. Khera a heart felt apology. I hope other families will be able to benefit from his help. "

    Dewey wrote on Nov 21, 2008 9:15 PM:

    " Not all rules are good ones. "

    GOLDIE GREWAL wrote on Nov 21, 2008 9:02 PM:

    " ITS SURE THAT THERE IS RACIAL IN THIS AREA BUT DON'T KNOW WHAT HAS TO DO WITH MR GARY KHERA'S TURBAN!!! IF THERE WOULD BE ANY JEWISH WHO WANT MAKE DOTATION WOULD THEY ASK HIM TO REMOVE HIS HOLLY HAT(DONT KNOW WHAT IT CALLED NO DISREPECT) AND IF ANY MUSLIM CAME UP WILL THEY WOUNT ACCEPT THERE DONATION TOO BECAUSE THEY ALSO WEARING HOLY CAP I DONT THINK SO I WISH THEY ALL NEED GET MORE IN THERE RELIGION AND LEARN FIRST THING THAT NO RELIGION SAY TO DISRESPECT ANY MEANS ANY CULTURE OR THERE FAITH PLEASE RESPECT OTHERS SO WE ALL GET RESPECT WE ALREADY GOT TO MANY DIFFERENCE WITH OTHERS LETS START NEW DAY WITH ALL RESPECT TO ALL RELIGIONS
    I FEEL SORRY TO MR KHERA HOPE HE DOES GOOD AND KEEP DOING TO HIS GOOD THOUGHTS FOR ALL CULTURE

    NEED TO REPLACE {WILLIAMS AND RON} AND SEND TO FIRST GRADE TO LEARN HOW TO RESPECT OTHERS THEY DONT DISERVE THIS JOB "

    Mike wrote on Nov 21, 2008 6:19 PM:

    " I am utterly appalled that a supposed man of the cloth could be so insensitive to the religious beliefs of others. "

    Poor Reporting wrote on Nov 21, 2008 3:51 PM:

    " Although I do not think that people should be persecuted for their religious beliefs because as a Christian I think that right is very important that is not the issue at hand. Khera, a topless bar owner, went into a Christian mission establishment that kindly posted a request for all who entered to respect the beliefs of Rev. Weeks and the others who are in charge. This request is posted for all males who are wearing anything on their head not only for Khera or other men of different religions. As much as Khera wants to have his rights respected he failed to respect the rights of Rev. Weeks and the Union Mission, also their right to freely express their religious beliefs. Khera went into their arena and therefore should respect their requests. Do I think that it is sad that the money that he was going to donate is not going to those who come to the U.M.? Yes I do because there are many people in need in our area but I also do not feel that Rev. Weeks did anything wrong by refusing to take money from a man who makes that money by doing something that Weeks and Christians believe is wrong. I think that the problem with the world today is not that people like Rev. Weeks are refusing "dirty" money or money from someone who refuses to respect the simple requests made by the U.M. but it is that not enough people stand up for what they believe. Political correctness is killing our nation and world, if we don't stand firm on our foundations in fear of offending someone then we may as well not have the foundation we have. There is a difference in tolerance and what people are wanting Rev. Weeks to do, back down from what he believes. "

    unhappy wrote on Nov 21, 2008 3:49 PM:

    " The Lord loves a cheerful giver. He does not ask you to what color, what race or ethnic group you belong to. The mission was deadly wrong. They have left a bad impression on the area of Roanoke Rapids. The mission serves a purpose of providing for others who are less fortunate thans others. Why would Ron Weeks step out of character to act like some uncaring patron. In my book, he is nbot living as God would have us live. The givers money spends the same way a Christian's money spends. This incident is ungodly and unchristianlike. Ron Weeks and the intake person, needs to be on their knees asking God for forgiveness and hope he never have to be in a position where they have to accept a hand out from Mr.Khera. Mr Khera continue to give your love offerings, but find some other group or organization which will gladly accept your gift as it was intended. "

    I wonder wrote on Nov 21, 2008 3:37 PM:

    " Are they non-profit? Is a non-profit entity allowed to discriminate in this way? "

    Shocked wrote on Nov 21, 2008 3:13 PM:

    " Ewwwww,you mean men don't wear a head covering in the kitchen when preparing food? Isn't that a Health Department Violation? Or maybe they discriminate and only allow women in the kitchen.

    FYI: I had alot of food to donate a few months back and didn't even get a returned phone. So Sad. "

    BV wrote on Nov 21, 2008 3:13 PM:

    " I HAVE ONE QUESTION FOR REV WEEKS AND HIS STAFF DO THEY REMEMBER THE STORY ABOUT THE OLD MAN WHO WAS TO HAVE A VISIT FROM JESUS AND JESUS VISITED HIM 3TIMES AS DIFFERENT PEOPLE. WELL REV WEEKS STOP THINK MAYBE YOU WERE VISITED AND ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THEN WORDS AND YOU ACTIONS SPEAK HIPROCRACY AND NARROW MINDNESS LORD SAYS LOVE THY NEIGHBOR! "

    Karen wrote on Nov 21, 2008 1:31 PM:

    " All the more reason for education in Roanoke rapids!! "

    najmah eltohami wrote on Nov 21, 2008 1:01 PM:

    " TO MR KHERA:
    I DO FIND IT UPLIFTING THAT YOU DECIDED TO TAKE YOUR DONATIONS ELSE WHERE IN THIS MATTER^ THIS IS THE WILL OF THE UNIVERSE, I BELIEVE^
    I'M AN AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSLIM AND TOO OFTEN I HAVE FOUND MYSELF IN SIMILAR SETTINGS SUCH AS YOURS^ FEAR AND EVIL IS AN UNENDING CYCLE AMONGST MANY AMERICANS^ DO WE HAVE TIME TO UNDERSTAND THESE FEARS^ WE ARE LIVING APPROXIMATELY 2008 YEARS AFTER THE COMING OF JESUS AND SOME AMERICANS DO NOT HAVE A CLUE ABOUT WHAT IT MEANS TO BE FREE^ I FEEL YOUR FRUSTRATION^
    AMANDALA!!!THROUGH PEACE^^^

    LOVE IN DETAILS
    ELTOHAMI "

    Jeff wrote on Nov 21, 2008 12:58 PM:

    " Another shining example of the ignorance of Roanoke Rapids. Wake up people and get a clue! What an embarassment. "

    Former Resident wrote on Nov 21, 2008 12:43 PM:

    " To Gia~ 1 Corinthians 11: 7 For a man ought not to have his head covered "

    Amazed also wrote on Nov 21, 2008 12:17 PM:

    " I can not believe that Rev. Weeks being a man of God would turn away a donation to help God's children. "

    Voice to be heard wrote on Nov 21, 2008 11:37 AM:

    " Considering the Mission is always advertising the herald that shelves are bare and donations needed I am surprised that they turned away a donation over headgear. Especially from a pastor. It is stated it is not a religious matter but to a degree it is. Would God care if you had a hat on as long as your heart was in the right place? I understand the removing of headgear is to show respect; but the respect here is that the donators religion is for him to have on his turban and that should in itself been taken into consideration. I, myself, have contributed to the mission and I am a single mother who struggles also. It seems maybe when I am able to contribute maybe I should do so elsewhere. "

    LovingCaring wrote on Nov 21, 2008 11:36 AM:

    " Strange and Interesting. The below comments by Weeks --- The policy, Weeks said, “Is that’s how we honor the Lord. It was not religion with him, he tried to make it religion. It was clear he wanted to argue and fight.”
    Could you please elaborate a little, as to who created the rule to ask all males to remove the headcovers. What was the reason behind that. I'm not asking why you have this rule, you are free to create your owns. The only reason why I'm asking this is becuase it appears to me like Mr. Gary has mentioned to you that he is covering his head to honor the Lord and you are questioning his belief without fully understanding the reason/logic behind that. Do you have an objection to Pope covering his head or even Lord Jesus being shown in movies, covering his head just befor saying a prayer. Mr. Gary was not expecting anything from you in return but by a general rule any individual or organization asking for donations should respect the donors. Do you set your own terms when you request Jesus or the Lord to grant you something? "

    Erika wrote on Nov 21, 2008 10:44 AM:

    " I really belive that this is discrimination. I understand that everyplace has their own policy on how they can be dressed, but a religion needs to be respected especilly in another church. I am a verry faithful person but 2 out of 3 people that are in there are fake they act holier than thou but probley in the club the night before. so who are the to judge other people, and he was tryin to help our community. "

    Curious wrote on Nov 21, 2008 10:33 AM:

    " For the sake of the public we are requesting that the Daily Herald follow-up on this story to inform community of the Union Missions executive response to this occurrence. Cultural diversity training is definitely needed. Your follow up will determine whether many who give to the mission will continue to give. "

    Jamie wrote on Nov 21, 2008 10:04 AM:

    " well, if the Union Mission doesn't want to take this man's donation, it's not only their loss but the loss of the families that this man's money would have benefited and fed this holiday season. I hope that his donation goes to another organization that will benefit the needy folks in our community! "

    Dr. Gurpreet Dhillon wrote on Nov 21, 2008 9:13 AM:

    " This is outrageous. No wonder ignorance is bliss. "

    Law Student wrote on Nov 21, 2008 8:42 AM:

    " Regardless of she said, he said, The United States Of America Supreme Court has ruled on this issue and my advice to Ms. Williams and Rev. Weeks, send a letter of apology and accept his donations. "

    CJP wrote on Nov 21, 2008 8:05 AM:

    " How small minded can these people be? Are they really this ignorant? This is why we as Americans are so disrepected around the world. Our small town minds miss the big picture. In this time of economic crisis, they had the gall to turn down a much needed donation. I agree Weeks and Willams should have to reimburse the Union Mission for the entire dollar amount refused. When Union Mission next comes to the paper with their tale of whoe, I hope EVERYONE recalls this incident. I hope Mr. Khera gives his donation to someone else that needs it. I agree that Gary Khera should not have to remove his turban. Small towns, umh, umh, umh! "

    ALVIN WILLIAMS wrote on Nov 21, 2008 7:37 AM:

    " Rev. Weeks has lost a contributor. I see this as religious bigotry no different from the Pastor who posted a sign over his church saying "America has a Muslim in the White House. It's a sin." Rev. Weeks wouldn't shake his hand and when interviewed I could hear the edge on his voice. It sounded like contempt to me. I believe Weeks should refund all prior donations and Khera should contribute to Hannah's Closet to help abused women. That's what I'm doing. "

    Sully wrote on Nov 21, 2008 4:59 AM:

    " As a native of RR now living in the East, I was appalled and hurt. As there are other charities seeking funds, I hope he will contribute to one of them, even to a Christian church; they all do good deeds.
    I apologize to Mr. & Mrs. Khera and hopefully say that not all people in Roanoke Rapids are so inclined.
    Welcome to my world of tolorance! "

    jim wrote on Nov 21, 2008 4:15 AM:

    " Gain Respect by Disrespecting Others?

    To get along in this small community we have to respect each others boundaries and Gary Khera crossed a religious boundary where people are expected to enter with their heads uncovered out of a sign of respect for a religious institution. (1 Corinthians 11: 7 For a man ought not to have his head covered) This story is not about the rights of Gary Khera, it is about the rights of the Union Mission to govern their own facility and control the environment of their facility. Gary Khera challenged the Union Mission in their own lobby, the Union Mission did not go to Gary Khera. The visitor Gary Khera should have backed out of the Union Mission when requested to remove his head covering. Gary Khera should have offered the same religious respect he wanted from the Union Mission. Who has the right to enter your house and tell you what to do? "

    dowhat wrote on Nov 20, 2008 10:40 PM:

    " I know of several volunteer fire departments that are ready and willing to accept any donation...... "

    Parminder Kaur wrote on Nov 20, 2008 10:12 PM:

    " This is really unfortunate, I sincerely hope that the Union Mission will try to educate its staff about diversity in their town. Such incidents happen because of ignorance and lack of tolerance for people who may look different. The Sikh religion teaches us to share our earnings with others, it does not matter what religion they are. Mr. Khera was just trying to do a good deed. Everything happens for the best, even in this case, I am sure the outcome will be good, more people will learn about who Sikhs are, what they stand for. I do not think a hungry person would care if Mr. Khera wears a head cover or not.
    As we approach the holiday season, let us give thanks for the rich diversity of people who call USA their home, let us share in their rich cultures and learn to be tolerant of others. "

    gina lilley wrote on Nov 20, 2008 9:30 PM:

    " Well i just want to say that i have worked for Gary for 8 years on and off.I think it was very nice of him to try to give money to help people.Most people do not donate anything.If there was a problem inside about his turban then they could have asked him to step outside to donate.Plus that was a lobby .The inside church is to the left in a different room so he was not in the church . If so then they have a kitchen in there church.Point is he was tring to help hungry people.I think they could have found a way to accept the money if they cared about feeding the hungry.Instead they cared more about what was on his head instead of the 50 hungry people.WHAT WOULD JESUS DO?In fact where in the bible does it say not to wear a hat? Or is it a man made rule hum i wonder?If u know please email me the answer.I want to thank Gary for his effort and strength in his religion.
    sincerly,Gia "

    Harpreet wrote on Nov 20, 2008 9:05 PM:

    " I am just disappointed that the Union Mission, being a religious organization could not understand the another person of faith just because Mr. Khera belong to another faith. Truth is higher, but still higher is the truthful living. Union Mission needs to look inside and see what did they loose and what did they gain. "

    dogfish wrote on Nov 20, 2008 9:02 PM:

    " This is outrageous! "

    Outraged wrote on Nov 20, 2008 7:19 PM:

    " As a citizen of RR I am outraged of the expectations of Rev. Weeks to ask someone to remove thier headcovering just to enter the lobby of the mission whether it be a ball cap, toboggan, visor or turban. I could understand if they were in the sanctuary or the room where a church service was being held or the dinner table. If Mr. Khera is an american citizen but chooses to practice a different religion than Rev. Weeks we should respect that. If he wanted to feed one person or the 50 he claims -the mission should be ashamed for not accepting the money. Wearing a hat or headcovering in a lobby is not disrespectful. If my husband had come in with a cap to cover a scar or hair loss due to chemo -would his donation be turned down.If a citizen came in with a santa hat on with gifts would they be asked to remove thiers? If anything I think the lord would be disapointed in Weeks. I will no longer support this mission based on this situation. "

    former resident wrote on Nov 20, 2008 6:51 PM:

    " this is disgusting. why turn away this man while he was trying to do a good deed, to give to the mission. some individuals really need to define what is the word Christian in the dictionary in biblical terms. "

    Kay wrote on Nov 20, 2008 6:25 PM:

    " How sad.....Shame on the Union Mission for not respecting this man's religion. Now they are out of donations in this tough economical times. I hope Mr. Khera finds another worthy cause to support and make donations to! "

    Keith wrote on Nov 20, 2008 4:58 PM:

    " This is the most ridiculous thing that I have heard in a long time. It is actually beyond stupid. The rule to take off your hat should only apply to the people that use their services, NOT DONORS. I would be willing to bet that the UPS Man and Mail Man do not have to remove their hats when deliverig mail or packages. Florence Williams and Rev. Ron Weeks should be suspended(unpaid) and have to come out of their pockets for the amount of money that Mr. Gary Khera and his wife was going to donate.

    As tough as times are, to do something this stupid is outrageous. "

    T-ONE wrote on Nov 20, 2008 3:05 PM:

    " this is utter ignorance. if you don't understand one's culture you really should educate yourself. still, why not take the donation? "

    Keith wrote on Nov 20, 2008 2:27 PM:

    " This is ridiculous. In the past, the Union Mission has complained of economic problems and inadequate space for people at the mission. Now they are turning people back because an individual refused to remove his turban. This is the behavior that is reprehensible. This is a form of racism. The employees involved at the Mission not only lack culture, or else they would have known how ridiculous they were by asking Mr. Khera to remove his turban, but also they exhibited prejudice and selfishness. All this individual wanted to do was share his successes with member of the community that were not as fortunate. We really need to get a grip! "

    Betty wrote on Nov 20, 2008 1:51 PM:

    " It is with great pride that one religion faces the other with their diverse rights. In this matter the turban should have been kept on and the donation handed through the door, or mailed as usual. The donation appears to have been a gift. It should not have been a bribe to diminish the religious rights of his benefactors. If he wishes to have his religious rights respected then he must surely understand that the recipients of a gift need not set aside their own religious policies and rights to take his offering. The Supreme Court says he has rights...but he must in turn respect the rights of others and not attempt to breach the rights of others. His rights do not eliminate the rights of others. Respect of rights goes both ways. "

    madatthat wrote on Nov 20, 2008 1:34 PM:

    " If the missions purpose is to help the needy, it shouldnt have mattered what Khera had on his head. You think those living on the street would have treated him like that if he was trying to donate something to them.(which was what he was trying to do) This is dont a case of respect or disrespect, its a case of ignorance. "

    KLM wrote on Nov 20, 2008 12:42 PM:

    " This is very sad for our community. The main/one place that people have to go for help treats people as though they are beggars or less than. To Rev Weeks and the In take Coordinator, serving God does not mean that one individual has to "conform" (as Rev Weeks said on the news)to rules which are not what the Bible teaches us. The treatment received from the "intake" coordinator is not surprising as many others have complained of the same disrectful treatment. It is a sad day when an organization who is on television one week asking for food, help and contributions can not take a few minutes to say thank you for a contribution. I am very certain of many ministers who from the pulpit would not have asked this gentleman to remove his turban if he had entered the church. People were lined up around the block at the mission today and because of the treatment of a person who would love to donate, many more will remain hungry. Next time, try Loving thy neighbor. Jesus said, whatever you do to the least of them, you have done unto me. "

    Amazed wrote on Nov 20, 2008 12:32 PM:

    " I am amazed that a mission that is always saying they do not have enough would turn someone away for this reason. The mission is supposed to be about helping others and for this man to be willing to donate enough for 50 people and be turned away is absurd. This is America and we can all choose our religions whether others approve or not. I hope that Mr. Khera finds some other cause to donate to I am sure there are many who will accept it gratefully even if he is wearing his turban. "

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