Pepsi Center modifying screening process after Muslim woman told to remove hijab

DENVER — The proprietors of Pepsi Center say safety screening processes will be reviewed and staff will be educated after an American Muslim woman was told to remove her hijab or be refused entrance.

On Nov. 5, Gazella Bensreiti moved to the Pepsi Center to watch one of the three brothers play the National Anthem.

As stated by the Colorado chapter of the Council about American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a worker at will call told Bensreiti to “consider off that thing ” — in reference to Bensreiti’s hijab — or be denied entrance.

“Gazella asked to be permitted to eliminate it in private, in front of another woman. She had been denied and subjected to embarrassment facing students, employees and other parents, before her kid became distraught, thinking her mom would not be allowed in to watch her function,” CAIR said in a declaration.

In a Facebook post explaining the ordeal, Bensreiti said there were five white men ahead of her wearing baseball caps.

Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, which owns Pepsi Center, issued another announcement concerning the incident:

“Pepsi Center prides itself on creating a safe and inclusive environment for all patrons regardless of race, sex, religion, national origin, handicap and sexual orientation.  Regrettably , there was a misunderstanding about November 5 when a security agent didn’t even recognize that Ms. Bensreiti was wearing a hijab. A manager immediately intervened, and Ms. Bensreiti entered.

We’ve reached out to Ms. Bensreiti and anticipate participating in honest discourse that leads to greater awareness and an chance to further celebrate the diversity which makes Denver this kind of distinctive place. While the matter is still under review, we’re taking the time to alter our screening procedure and supply additional education. ”

CAIR says it “has reported an unprecedented surge in bigotry targeting American Muslims and members of other minority groups since the election of Donald Trump as president. ”

CAIR plans to hold a press conference about the incident Wednesday morning.

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