Kuffiyeh: Terrorist Symbol or Fashion Statment?

The article "Terrorist Chic" by Imaan Ali is about how the American public as a whole views the kuffiyeh scarf. It traditionally was worn in parts of the Arab world as a way of shielding one's face form the harsh climate, sun and sand. The kuffiyeh was also worn as a sign of resistance against the British in the 30s and by activists during the first Palestinian intifada in the 80s. Of course almost none of the American public knows the origin of the kuffiyeh and I don't think they care. Most ignorant Americans view it as a sign of terrorism and hatred and they don't care who wears it. Whether it is worn by Kanye West, Yasser Arafat, Rachel Ray or a young Arab-American to most Americans it still symbolizes the same thing. After reading this article I realized how sad it is that as a country we fear what we don't understand. If more Americans took the time to realize where this fashion statement came from they would understand that for many it is a symbol of the Palestine national struggle, the dream of being free, the right to a country and patriotism. Just because one terrorists decides to wear a kuffiyeh does not mean that ever single person who wears one is a terrorist as well. As a country we need to remember what our country stands for and what we value. As a country we value the freedom of speech and the freedom to wear what ever we wish without having to worry about being judged or targeted.