Birmingham University, UK, apologises for confusing Sikh langar with Islamic campaign

The University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, has apologised after it eliminated a social media submit that appeared to confuse Sikh college students with Muslims.

According to a report in The Birmingham Mail, the college submit implied {that a} ‘Langar on Campus’ occasion organised by the college’s Sikh Society earlier in February 2024 was a part of an Islamic Awareness Week.

An Instagram account of the college tagged the free meals occasion, impressed by the Sikh idea of langar, in a submit with the textual content ‘Discover Islam Week’.

“It is disappointing however very revealing to see these in control of the general public picture of the University of Birmingham (UoB) are ignorant concerning the communities on the college,” mentioned Jasveer Singh, spokesperson of the Sikh Press Association (PA), which highlighted the error on social media.

“There is clearly a difficulty with the coaching and training given to UoB employees. Sikhs have been a distinguished section of the University of Birmingham group for a long time,” he mentioned.

Several individuals took to social media to touch upon the error, with remarks reminiscent of “stunning” and “unbelievable”.

“The college sincerely apologises for any offence or upset this has brought on,” a UoB spokesperson mentioned.

“We recognise this submit was incorrect. It was recognized shortly after being posted and instantly deleted. The college respects and celebrates the range of our group and frequently works to supply a welcoming and inclusive surroundings. We have made contact with related people and teams to apologise instantly and hearken to their views,” added the spokesperson.

Open to all no matter religion or perception, the ‘Langar on Campus’ initiative affords individuals the possibility to take pleasure in a free vegetarian dish, with vegan choices consisting of lentil soup, vegetable curry and chapattis, all freshly ready domestically in Birmingham.

This month marked 20 years because the first ‘Langar on Campus’ was organised on the University of Birmingham. The occasion is described as an awesome alternative to be taught extra in regards to the Sikh religion and to fulfill members of the college’s Sikh Society. Now, over 15 universities within the UK host related occasions.