All over social media I’m seeing people saying it’s in support of Palestine. I’m also seeing a TON of ads for people selling them claiming that purchasing one is a form of support for Palestine. I’ve noted that most of them do not specify that proceeds are going to aid, just a more general form of support.

I just saw one white burgerlander insist that wearing one is the bare minimum for anyone who cares about Palestine because by adopting the clothing, you’re preventing total genocide by making sure their culture survives. To me that reads like the most unhinged justification for cultural appropriation I’ve ever heard. Even using cultural appropriation as a value-neutral term, it’s appropriation, not immersion and adoption. It does not prevent the people from being murdered who actually are of that culture you’re saying you’re preserving.

Am I missing something? I’m a white burgerlander myself so it’s very possible. Does wearing/buying these actually support Palestinians in any way? Or is it just quickly becoming the next liberal simulacrum for activism?

  • Evilphd666 [he/him, comrade/them]
    ·
    7 months ago

    This is the last place in Palestine directly that makes them. You would have to find out who your seller is and where the money goes elsewhere.

    https://kufiya.org/

    A SYMBOL OF STRUGGLE OR FREEDOM

    The symbolic “Kufiya” (aka “Shemagh” / “Keffiyeh”) garment is more important today than ever. Traditionally worn over the head or shoulders by farmers, the last century has seen a revival of the Kufiya as it became synonymous with the quest for Palestinian freedom and independence.

    Adopted by freedom fighters in the 1930’s Arab Revolt, this traditional arabic scarf or headress became the uniform Palestinian rebels, in their resistance against the occupation of the British Empire. Not long after, in continued solidarity with Palestinian heritage and independence from Israeli occupation, the Kufiya ascended into a powerful symbol of Palestinian struggle and freedom.

    Today the Palestinian Kufiya, famous for its black & white pattern, is worn across the world by those standing in solidarity with Palestine – in the US, Europe, Malaysia, Indonesia, and of course the Middle East. It has become a meaningful fashion item worn by political activists, musicians, artists, and designers around the world.

    https://kufiya.org/what-does-the-palestinian-keffiyeh-symbolize/

    Unless you're doing something really stupid or only using it a fashionable in thing then you shouldn't worry about cultural appropriation.