Former US President Barack Obama has praised San Diego-based Sikh neuroscientist Jiwandeep Kohli who is celebrating this year’s Pride Month with a rainbow turban.
Kohli, who is a bisexual, went viral a few days ago when he shared an image of his elaborate creation — his turban that featured the colours of the LGBT flag — on Twitter.
“I’m proud to be a bisexual bearded baking brain scientist. I feel fortunate to be able to express all these aspects of my identity and will continue to work towards ensuring the same freedom for others,” he captioned the image.
Complimenting Kohli, Obama tweeted on Tuesday: “You’ve got a lot to be proud of, Jiwandeep. Thanks for everything you do to make this country a little more equal. Turban looks great, by the way. Happy Pride Month, everybody!”
The California viral sensation responded to Obama.
“I’m a fairly verbose person, but today I am lost for words,” Kohli wrote. “Thank you for your support and the compliment, Mr Obama.”
Pride Month kicked off on June 1 and honours the LGBTQ community while commemorating New York’s Stonewall riots in June 1969 that signalled a turning point in the movement for equal rights.
