Canadian provincial house upholds keffiyeh ban despite pushback
Canada’s provincial assembly of Ontario has decided to maintain a ban on keffiyehs, a checked scarf that has become a symbol of the Palestinian struggle.
Speaker Ted Arnott, citing concerns about overt political statements, enforced the prohibition despite opposition from Premier Doug Ford.
Ford argued against the ban, emphasizing its potential to deepen community divisions.
However, Arnott defended the decision, referencing existing rules against political attire in the legislature.
A motion to lift the ban was proposed by New Democrat Party Leader Marit Stiles and supported by Ford and Liberal Party Leader.
It failed to pass due to the requirement of unanimous consent.
The keffiyeh ban extends to prosecutors, staff, and visitors, prompting debate over cultural expression and political symbolism within the legislature.
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