Jhumpa Lahiri declines Noguchi Museum award over keffiyeh dress code controversy

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jhumpa Lahiri has withdrawn her acceptance of the 2024 Isamu Noguchi Award from the Noguchi Museum. Her decision came in response to the museum's updated dress code policy, which led to the firing of employees for wearing keffiyehs in September 2024. The museum issued a statement acknowledging her withdrawal and respecting her perspective while noting the policy might not align with all views. Established in 2014, the annual award recognizes individuals who demonstrate innovation, imagination, and a commitment to creativity with social consciousness. Following Lahiri's withdrawal, the 2024 award will now be presented solely to Korean artist Lee Ufan. The museum's actions regarding employee terminations over keffiyeh attire directly prompted Lahiri's principled stand.