Instead of being more concerned about the outcome of President Donald Trump’s meetings on his first foreign tour, media outlets are busy criticizing the attire and behavior of the president and the first lady.
Although both the former first lady, Michelle Obama and the former secretary of state, Hillary Clinton did not wear headscarves while visiting Saudi Arabia in the past, Melania Trump is being called disrespectful for her decision to not cover her hair and face.
Saudi women are required to wear an abaya, a black robe while in public, along with a niqab, a veil that covers their head and face. It’s not required for Western women to wear these garments.
But, nonetheless, there are those who criticize the women who choose to not wear a headscarf.
Apparently, Trump even tweeted about when the former first lady, Michelle Obama didn’t wear a headscarf.
“Many people are saying it was wonderful that Mrs. Obama refused to wear a scarf in Saudi Arabia, but they were insulted. We have enuf enemies,” tweeted Trump, back in 2015.
Whether or not his opinion has changed, Melania and Trump’s daughter both chose to not cover their heads while arriving in the country.
Then the Trump camp was criticized for how the president received Saudi Arabia’s highest civilian honor.
Previously, Trump blasted Obama for bowing to King Salman and the president of Mexico.
“The Amateur! First @BarackObama was caught bowing to the Saudi King but now the President of Mexico! http://t.co/f0CFiUS9,” tweeted Trump on June 20, 2012.
Even though, Fox News published an article with this headline “Trump Shakes Hands with Saudi Leader, Doesn’t Bow as Obama Appeared to Do,” some said it looked like he slightly bowed when accepting his honor.
The only bowing he did was to get the award around his neck and he made a slight nod as a thank you.
Before arriving to the country, the president made it clear that bowing won’t be permitted.
“Last words from @POTUS before deplaning Air Force One: “I catch one American bowing here and you’re on the next Saudia flight home”…” tweets Steve Cortes, reporter, Wall Street veteran, and former Trump Hispanic Advisory Council member.
Author’s note: This does not count as a “bow.” Trump purposely did not bow and Melania did not wear a headscarf to send a message. Trump is unapologetically American. You can be respectful of other cultures, while also having tremendous pride for your own.