DeScribe and Remedy raising funds for "My Keffiyeh"

Folks, recently I pointed you all to the kickstarter page raising money for a documentary on Punk Jews (which I'm proud to say has reached it's $10,000 goal!). Today I want you to know about Jewish hip hop artists DeScribe and Remedy's fund raising for their "My Keffiyeh" project. Here's their pitch...

In text...

"Shemspeed’s Israeli Keffiyeh is steadily gaining attention in the world of fashion, and in the process, spreading awareness of Jewish pride, respect, and cross-cultural unity. DeScribe, one of Shemspeed’s hip hop and reggae stars, has joined with Remedy,Wu-Tang Clan affiliate, to take this project to the next level through their new single, “My Keffiyeh,” and its accompanying music video. This dynamic music video will bring the Israeli Keffiyeh project into the public arena, as it airs on MTV, Fuse, and other cable channels. Not only will “My Keffiyeh” raise awareness of the Shemspeed Keffiyah project, it will also create global awareness of Jewish cultural pride, and showcase the diversity that exists in our community. At this point, all the technical pieces are in place, but we need your support to help make the project happen! Take part in this historic event by making a pledge today."

and video...

"My Keffiyeh" Music Video Promo (DeScribe & Remedy) from Shemspeed TV on Vimeo.

Now that they've made their pitch and you've decided what you think, I'm going to say that I don't get it. While I'm very pro-Israel, I'm frustrated enough about the Israeli governments actions that this appropriation of an Arab (and particularly Palestinian) garment seems clearly political, jingoistic, and tacky. I'm particularly uncomfortable with DeScribe and Remedy's usage of it as an element of Jewish pride. We have plenty, ranging from the Torah itself to the Magen David to a good bagel. We have no need of this.

But make your own decision. Support it if you like, and by all means tell me why I'm wrong if you disagree.