Canadian provincial legislature rejects reversal of keffiyeh ban in tense vote
Canada’s legislature in the province of Ontario has rejected a proposal to lift the ban on wearing keffiyeh scarves for the second time.
The ban was initiated by Speaker Ted Arnott, citing concerns the scarf symbolized political support for Palestine.
Despite efforts by New Democrat Party Leader Marit Stiles and support from Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie, as well as Premier Doug Ford, the motion failed.
Stiles argued that the keffiyeh was a cultural symbol, not a political statement.
Ford, initially against the ban, allowed his party members to vote freely.
However, many conservatives voted to maintain it.
Analysts say the decision underscores ongoing debate about the cultural significance and political connotations of the keffiyeh in Canada and other Western countries.