Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jhumpa Lahiri has declined to accept an award from the Noguchi Museum in New York City after the museum fired three employees for wearing keffiyeh head scarves, a symbol of Palestinian solidarity. The museum implemented a dress code policy prohibiting political messages, slogans, or symbols on clothing or accessories during working hours.
Lahiri’s decision to withdraw her acceptance of the 2024 Isamu Noguchi Award was announced by the museum, which stated that they respect her perspective and understand that their policy may not align with everyone’s views. The museum’s director, Amy Hau, explained that the policy aims to prevent unintentional alienation of visitors while focusing on promoting Isamu Noguchi’s art and legacy.
The keffiyeh, worn by protesters around the world in support of Palestine, has been a symbol of Palestinian self-determination and has sparked controversy among Israel’s supporters who view it as endorsing extremism. Recent incidents of individuals being attacked or fired for wearing the keffiyeh have highlighted the ongoing tension surrounding the symbol.
Lahiri, along with artist Lee Ufan, was set to receive the Isamu Noguchi Award at the museum’s autumn benefit gala, but Ufan is now the sole recipient. Lahiri’s decision comes after her involvement in expressing solidarity with campus protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza, emphasizing the ongoing debate surrounding the conflict and the use of political symbols like the keffiyeh.
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