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Justin Bieber sporting a red keffiyeh

Justin Bieber wears keffiyeh: Cultural appropriation or silent solidarity?

Justin Bieber wears keffiyeh: Cultural appropriation or silent solidarity?

Published :  
06-10-2024 14:54|
Last Updated :  
06-10-2024 17:58|

Recently, Justin Bieber was photographed wearing a traditional keffiyeh, sparking discussions about cultural appropriation and celebrity responsibility.

While the keffiyeh is commonly worn by Arabs in the region as a traditional garment, it is increasingly recognized in the Western world as an emblem of Palestinian resistance, especially since it is associated with figures like Abu Obaida, the spokesperson for Hamas’ Qassam Brigades.

Many argue that Bieber's adoption of the keffiyeh is cultural appropriation given his silence on the ongoing atrocities faced by Palestinians and Lebanese people.

This has led to accusations that his fashion choice is not only tone-deaf but also an act of appropriation rather than appreciation. Wearing the keffiyeh without acknowledging its cultural and political context can be seen as diminishing its meaning and the struggles of those it represents.

Following October 7, Bieber has only shown solidarity with the Israeli Occupation, even posting a photo of Gaza with the caption “Praying for Israel”, mistaking the devastated strip for “Israel”.

Bieber has yet to show any form of solidarity towards Palestinians.

Here are some online reactions: