close
close

topicnews · September 26, 2024

What is the Kufiya headscarf that caused Pulitzer Prize winner Jhumpa Lahiri to turn down the New York Museum Prize?

What is the Kufiya headscarf that caused Pulitzer Prize winner Jhumpa Lahiri to turn down the New York Museum Prize?

Kufiya headscarves have been a topic of discussion since the beginning of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Most recently, Pulitzer Prize winner Jhumpa Lahiri turned down an award from the Noguchi Museum in New York City after three of her employees were fired for wearing Kufiya headscarves.

The museum has updated its dress code and now prohibits employees from wearing keffiyeh headscarves, as they are considered a symbol of Palestinian solidarity.

What is a Kufiya headscarf?

The keffiyeh scarf was often worn by protesters demanding an end to the war between Israel and Hamas. The black and white scarf, also known as a hatta, is a traditional Arab head covering.

While it is a symbol of solidarity for Palestine supporters around the world, it has also become a controversial issue that Israel supporters see as provocative and encouraging of terrorism.

Kufiyas are usually made from cotton fabric and have a distinctive woven pattern. Although they are made in a variety of colors, black and white have become an important symbol for Palestinians.

Some say the black stripes on the keffiyeh represent the ancient trade routes that passed through Palestine, while the net pattern can be seen as a connection between Palestine and the Mediterranean. The curved lines are seen as a symbol of olive trees, which the Palestinians are proud of.

Although there is no evidence to support these historical claims, the headscarf has become synonymous with Palestinians over the past decade, as they associate it with solidarity and their desire for freedom.

Kufiya and the Israel-Hamas conflict

A keffiyeh was also worn by Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida, who is often seen covering his face behind a white and red keffiyeh.

In November last year, three Palestinian students were shot dead in Vermont. Both were wearing the Kufiya headscarf.

Over the course of this time, many people in the United States have lost their jobs because of their stance on the war between Israel and Hamas.

(With contributions from agencies)

Prajvi Mathur

Prajvi Mathur has a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. Her interests include geopolitics, science and lifestyle. In her free time, she enjoys

showMore