Saudi Arabia

by Qilin
(Chofu)

When we are trying to comment on a country, preconceived notions always exist. Sometimes the things we regard as strange or not suitable are not always the way they look like.

Once mentioning Saudi Arabia, the dress of women will always be the top topic. In our minds, women in Saudi Arabia are wretched because they have to wear black clothes all the time and it could be quite hot in summer. Actually, the black clothes they wear in summer are just a layer of crepe which are quite thin and breathable. What's more, you can enjoy the air conditioner almost in every supermarket. In this way, feeling hot in the black dress is just a unrounded assumption.

Furthermore, having to wearing specific clothes is not a discrimination. Every nation has its own culture, such as Japanese women will wear Japanese kimonos for festivals. Nobody will consider this action as a discrimination for women.

The notion that women in Saudi have to cover all of their bodies is outdated. The law in Saudi Arabia tells that females must wear a black robe, but the hijab is not necessary. Some of the local Saudi woman do not wear a hijab while some will wear headscarves but expose the entire face. These are personal choices. Even when Hillary Clinton visits Saudi Arabia, she also wears a black robe----that is a respect for a custom.

Maybe some discrimination does exist in this country. But I hope when we try to comment on a country, do not let the preconceived notions cover our eyes. Try to be smart and thoughtful.