The removal of the keffiyeh from a student during a graduation ceremony in Saskatoon sparks widespread criticism

Saskatoon —
The incident of removing the Palestinian keffiyeh from the neck of a student during a graduation ceremony at a high school in the Canadian city of Saskatoon sparked widespread criticism, after a video clip circulated showing a teacher removing the keffiyeh from the student as she was going up to the stage to receive her certificate.

The National Council of Canadian Muslims said the incident represents a clear example of racism against Palestinians, considering that dealing with symbols of Palestinian identity and culture, especially in educational institutions and graduation ceremonies, is often met with unjustified suspicion and linked to violence or terrorism.

The video showed the student wearing the keffiyeh as she headed to receive her certificate at Centennial Collegiate School, before the teacher removed it from her neck in front of the audience. The student appeared surprised for a moment, then put the keffiyeh back on after receiving the certificate.

The council called on Canadian institutions to take such incidents seriously and hold those responsible accountable, stressing that expressing Palestinian identity should not be treated as a violation or a threat.

The Palestinian keffiyeh carries deep cultural and political symbolism, as it is considered one of the most prominent symbols of Palestinian national identity, worn by Palestinians inside the Palestinian territories and in the diaspora, as well as by supporters of the Palestinian cause around the world.

The incident comes amid increasing sensitivity within Canadian educational institutions towards symbols and expressions related to Palestine, amid growing calls to protect freedom of expression and prevent targeting students because of their identity or cultural and political positions.