subversion.

chances are you probably know about kuwait because of the iraqi invasion (and subsequent gulf war(s) which followed). and no doubt, kuwait is still recovering. there's buildings that remained bombed out, an economy that had a huge portion of its assets (oil, of course) burned, and a people who have lived through unimaginable war. but still, what remains in the media depictions, particularly of the women, are these veiled (read: oppressed) women who are second class citizens in their own society. well, as i found out in class today, these head scarfs have come in handy, particularly during tims of war.

so, the iraqi occupation of kuwait began in 1990. soon following many of the men were sent to war. and similar to women elsewhere during times of war, the women of kuwait (not kuwaiti women, again that whole citizenship thing) assumed traditionally masculine roles. but, due to the occupation, basic necessities (medicine, money, etc) were stollen or prohibited. but the women had a plan. women who covered used their hijab or burqa as a hiding place for documents, money, medicine, etc. subsequently, at checkpoints maintained by iraqi forces, the women of kuwait managed to smuggle necessary items. and so, the veil, so often conceived of in the west a sign of oppression became a sign of patriotism and courage.

if you're interested in more, check out this great article a friend just forwarded me on women wearing hijabs and burqas.