Canadian Muslims: Removal of student’s keffiyeh at graduation is anti-Palestinian racism

OTTAWA, July 01 (YPA) – The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) said Tuesday that the removal of a Palestinian keffiyeh scarf from a graduating student at a Saskatoon high school ceremony reflects a wider pattern of anti-Palestinian racism, sharing a video of the moment on social media.

“It has been extremely disturbing to witness the latest incident at Saskatoon’s Centennial Collegiate,” the group said in a statement on social media.

“We have seen so much anti-Palestinian racism in recent years, particularly on campuses and inside graduation ceremonies such as these, where any reference to Palestinian culture or identity is conflated with ideas of terrorism and violence,” said NCCM.

NCCM added that “this is the hallmark of anti-Palestinian racism that must to (sic) addressed and held accountable throughout all institutions in Canada.”

Footage circulating recently on social media showing a faculty member at the Centennial College in Saskatoon, Canada, removing a Palestinian keffiyeh off a graduate on-stage.

The student appeared momentarily surprised before placing the scarf back around her neck after receiving her diploma.

@E.Y.M