PHOENIX (US): Nordstrom has apologized to American Sikhs for selling a turban they found offensive, but a representative with the US community’s top civil rights organization said they are still waiting to hear from the Gucci brand that designed it. “We feel that companies are commodifying and capitalizing on something that is dear and sacred to people around the world,” said Simran Jeet Singh, a senior fellow with the New York-based Sikh Coalition, who said the turban has a deep religious significance for the men of his faith.
“And there is tension over the fact that the very article of our faith has been the focus of so much hate and violence and bullying,” he said, recalling that Sikhs wearing turbans have been attacked in hate crimes, including a man killed near Phoenix a few days after 9/11. The current complaint springs from a Gucci head wrap that until May 15 was advertised on Nordstrom’s website for $790 as the “Indy Full Turban.” The description said the “gorgeously crafted turban is ready to turn heads while keeping you in comfort as well as trademark style.”
The Nordstrom website had a reference to a Gucci “head wrap,” but it was listed as sold out and it was no longer pictured. “We have decided to stop carrying this product and have removed it from the site. It was never our intent to disrespect this religious and cultural symbol. We sincerely apologize to anyone who may have been offended by this,” the department store said.
Gucci’s turban was first talked about last winter, when a white model walked the runway wearing it during a fashion show. Gucci had not responded to the criticism over the product. Emails seeking comment were sent to Gucci through its public relations representatives and a corporate fashion services website. “When companies appropriate articles of faith, they do not take into consideration the discrimination Sikhs face while adhering to the tenets of their faith. We appreciate Nordstrom’s recognition of this problem & apology,” the Sikh coalition said.
