Encomium
The first lady of United States of America (USA) Michelle Obama caused a stir when she decided not to cover her hair while visiting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for King Abdullah’s funeral.
Many have, predictably, taken to Twitter to claim that appearing in the country without wearing a headscarf was a sign of disrespect to her hosts, while several others praised the US First Lady for her actions.
Some even thought she was deliberately making a statement on the harsh restrictions placed on Saudi women, who are not allowed to drive, appear outside of the house without a man, show their hair, or even vote (however voting regulations in the country are to be changed this year).
What those criticizing her may not know is that Michelle Obama is far from the first female dignitary to visit Saudi Arabia without covering her hair – both Hilary Clinton and Laura
Bush – erstwhile First Ladies, have appeared unveiled in the country before.
