WASHINGTON — On Tuesday, first lady Michelle Obama appeared sans headscarf in Saudi Arabia — a move than is triggering a conversation on social media. Under the kingdom’s strict dress code for women, Saudi females are required to wear a headscarf and loose, black robes in public. Michelle Obama, who joined President Barack Obama for a condolence visit after the death of King Abdullah, wore long pants and a long jacket – but no headscarf. Here’s what some people are saying about Michelle Obama’s outfit choice on Twitter:
Outage over Michelle Obama wearing head-scarf? Its not like she was tweeting, driving or wanting to work or something — Syed Ali Abbas Zaidi (@Ali_Abbas_Zaidi) January 28, 2015
I believe in respecting the religions & cultures of countries you are visiting, but sometimes you have to make a statement #MichelleObama — Mariellen Ward (@Breathedreamgo) January 28, 2015
Michelle Obama receives mild criticism for not wearing a headscarf in Saudi. The real story here: a local would’ve been arrested and beaten. — Simon Price (@simon_price01) January 28, 2015
This “outrage” is really hype re: Michelle Obama not wearing headscarf in Saudi. Condi Rice didn’t either. http://t.co/qreb4EVsKJ @usatoday — Maria Abi-Habib (@Abihabib) January 28, 2015
I appreciate #MichelleObama for not covering head when they met #KingSalman in SA -it gives a message that u can’t force ur faith on others. — Abdulla Madumoole (@AMadumoole) January 28, 2015
I don’t get the fuss, so what #MichelleObama didn’t cover her head?! It is not like she went to visit a mosque she visited a palace. — Boutaïna Azzabi (@Boutaina) January 28, 2015
You come to home, respect MY tradition. I come to your home, respect MY tradition, again. Exactly how #MichelleObama critiques mean. — Saleem Javed (@mSaleemJaved) January 28, 2015
Do you think the First Lady should have worn a headscarf while in Saudi Arabia? You can join the conversation on our Facebook page or tweet your thoughts using #WTOP. Follow @WTOP on Twitter and WTOP on Facebook.