"In THAT case, why do the pull over the 78-year-old Caucasian grandmas for special inspection?"
I am not sure what you are referring to here. If you are saying that we as a culture see no difference, all I can say is that this has not been my experience.
The woman dressed all in black and veiled, is very different in her public appearance and behavior (typically, but not always).
The covered woman would consider it a serious violation if you, insisted upon eye contact, took her hand in a greating, or if you touched her in any way. This is awkward and unsettling to most Western people. If you offer a kind greeting to caucasian granny, she will grab your hand and shake it like a rattle, pull you close and give you a hug, then pinch your cute little cheeks while you introduce yourself. This kind of behavior would be considered outragiously slutty in some parts of the Middle East.
If you walk toward a covered woman standing on a corner she might step back into the shadows of a building and remain there until you pass. C.G. will step into the light, make eye contact, and check you out.
In Western movies persons who slip into the shadows covered in black and wearing a black mask are the most feared bad guys. In Medina they are revered as the most virtuous.
There are many more cultural distinctions that are notable but I think you get the point.
I know that most people make the adjustment in their own mind set. Many do not, and harbor anymosity based on the above. |
