Blog
Lojine Kamel

Leave Your Politics At The Door

Wiser words could not have been said.

Too often in the Arab world we find ourselves—family, friends, and even random strangers—feuding on the basis of political or religious disagreements. Tolerance is hard to come by, and acceptance, even less so. That is why this statement, found on the streets of Beirut, strikes an all too familiar chord with the Lebanese.

In Arabic, it reads: “Please stand here to enjoy this drawing. This is art and not a religious or political message.” A testament to creativity—because really, how often do we just stare at art without passing judgement?—society, and the ingenuity of the artist, this street graffiti easily evokes emotion without being condescending.

Because there’s nothing wrong with simple appreciation.