Quote:
Originally Posted by *Shira*
... And in my article, I mentioned the fact that I don't wish to have stereotypes about Americans erroneously applied to me, so I choose to dress in a way that defies the stereotypes and puts people's assumptions off balance. And there are other considerations, too.
Ultimately, it's your own choice. But I do feel it's important to make that choice based on CORRECT information regarding what the locals do. In this case, your statement that only "some" of the locals cover their hair is just plain wrong, at least in Cairo and Luxor.
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I stand corrected about the percentages of women who veil in Cairo and Luxor.
As far as American stereotypes- there are other measures I'd choose to take before donning a veil so as not to perpetuate the negative stereotypes and to simultaneously show respect for the culture. First- learn Arabic. At least enough to communicate the basics. Second- not dress provocatively. Third- from being around Muslim Arabs a lot here I have a tendency to use my right hand for almost everything- especially eating, and also communicating with others, so that's easy to continue.
So, it's not lack of respect for culture. It's just lack of desire to contribute to practices that are oppressive or part of oppression.
I think someone above mentioned "blending in". Maybe from behind. Maybe. But with fair skin, red hair and green eyes- not so likely from the front.