What is keffiyeh headscarf, over which Pulitzer winner Jhumpa Lahiri declined NY Museum award?
Keffiyeh headscarf
Keffiyeh headscarves have remained a topic of debate since the Israel-Hamas conflict began. In a recent incident, Pulitzer Prize winner Jhumpa Lahiri declined an award from the Noguchi Museum in New York City after they fired three of their employees for wearing keffiyeh head scarves.
The museum has updated its dress code, prohibiting the employees from wearing keffiyeh headscarves as it is seen as a symbol of Palestinian solidarity.
What is a keffiyeh headscarf?
The keffiyeh scarf has been often seen wornby protesters demanding the end of the Israel-Hamas war. Also known as a 'hatta', the black and white scarf is a traditional Arab headwear.
While it is a symbol of solidarity for Palestine supporters globally, it has also become a controversial item that Israel supporters find provocative and promoting terrorism.
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Keffiyeh is usually made of cotton fabric and has a distinctive woven pattern. While it is made in a variety of colours, black and white has become an important symbol for Palestinians.
Some people claim the black stripes on keffiyeh represent the ancient trade routes that were laid across Palestine, while the fishnet design can be seen as the link between Palestine and the Mediterranean Sea. The curvy lines are believed to be a symbol of olive trees, which Palestinians take pride in.
While there is no evidence for these historical claims, this scarf has become synonymous with Palestinians over the last decade. They associate the headwear with solidarity and their yearning for freedom.
Keffiyeh and Israel-Hamas conflict
Keffiyeh has also been worn by the Hamas spokesperson Abu Obeida, who is often seen covering his face behind a white and red Keffiyeh.
In November last year, three Palestinian students were shot in Vermont. Two of them were wearing the Keffiyeh.
Over the period, many people in the United States have lost their jobs for their stance on the Israel-Hamas war.
(With inputs from agencies)