GUIDELINES FOR SIKHS IN AIRPORT SECURITY CHECKS
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SOME THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND FIRST
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1. Understand in advance that it is a different world than a month ago and people are very nervous and suspicious.
2. All airport security personnel, including security screeners, are on heightened alert.
3. Understand that the FAA does have a Watchlist and the name "Khalsa" does appear on that list.
4. All magnetometers (metal detectors) are tuned very high so items that may not have set it off previously, like hairpins, are likely to set it off now.
5. Understand that security protocols in effect now call for random screening of passengers, which means that you may be pulled out of line and
questioned or checked more thoroughly. This does not necessarily mean that you are being profiled or discriminated against.
6. While we are asking that our rights be protected and that we be treated with the respect that is due us, please understand that we don't want a situation to arise where someone with malintent could disguise themselves as a Sikh and cause another problem.
7. Remember that we are Khalsa, but we are also Americans and world citizens who are concerned about the security and safety of our country, fellow citizens, and the world at large, therefore relate to submitting to the security screening procedures as another way of doing your duty to ensure the well-being of everyone. Think in terms of setting an example for others.
8. Finally, remember that you do have the option not to submit to additional searches or questioning, but if you choose that option you don't get on the plane and it may complicate your future travel since your name
will be put on file.
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SECURITY AND YOU
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(Remember that these are guidelines based on our meetings and discussions with airport security and operations personnel and the Federal Air Marshals: the choice is up to you)

1. It is best not to put metal hairpins in your hair before you fly. They are likely to activate the magnetometer leading to the possibility that you
will be asked to remove your turban.
2. It is best not to put your kanga in your hair since security may do a pat down of your turban and if they feel the kanga may ask you to remove your turban. Especially kangas with kirpans in them should not be worn. You could keep the kanga in your bag if you want to take it with you on the plane.
3. It is best not to wear a turban pin. Pack it in your luggage.
4. It is best not to wear kirpan necklaces or really any heavy jewelry that is likely to activate the metal detector. Pack them.
5. It is best to remove your kara (if you can) before going through the metal detector.
6. If you activate the metal detector, you will be asked to submit to a wand scan. If you refuse you can go no further. So try to be aware of the response of the magnetometer when you walk through and if you.
7. You may be asked to submit to a wand scan anyway as part of the random screen procedures that security is required to do.
8. You may also be asked to submit to a pat down.
9. Wand scans and pat downs may be the result of you activating the machine
or the result of random screening. The security person must ask your permission to scan you or pat you down. This is normally done in plain view, so as to avoid misbehavior on the part of the security personnel and so there are witnesses.
10. If they wand you they will wand your turban and may pat it down, that is why kangas, especially those with kirpans in them are not recommended for travel.
11. If you are asked to remove your turban, you can ask them what is their probable cause for making that request. The Albuquerque, New Mexico Airport
management have agreed that Sikhs will not be asked to remove their turbans without probable cause (ie activating the magnetometer), however that may not apply at other airports. Airlines do have the right to ask you to remove it for additional screening. We are working on this, but that is the way it is at this time.
12. If you are asked to remove your turban, they are obligated to take you to a private room and once you are cleared, you will be allowed to retie it.
13. If you feel that your rights are being violated, you can request to see the Ground Security Chief. You can explain your situation to the GSC, however their decision is final.
14. Remember that like any business, the airlines have the right to refuse service so think in terms of being a good customer.
15. Please be courteous, graceful and dignified at all times and think more in terms of being helpful rather than being victimized. For the most part people are simply trying to do a good job. Safety and security are huge issues now. Remember that your behavior will affect people in your environment, so think that you are helping them to feel secure.