The first lady wore a pith helmet, which many pointed out has colonialism ties, on safari in Kenya.
Saul Loeb/Getty Images
In her first solo international trip during her husband’s presidency, Melania Trump visited Africa. During a safari trip at Nairobi National Park in Kenya, her outfit sparked controversy.
The first lady wore a white button down, khaki riding pants, over-the-knee boots, and a white “pith” helmet, an outfit that looked like a stereotypical costume from an adventure movie.Â
Pith helmets have colonial ties. In the 19th century, European explorers, imperialists, and military officers wore them in Africa, according to The Guardian. The culturally insensitive symbolism behind the helmet was made apparent across social media.
While in Egypt, Trump responded to the criticism and told reporters, “I wish people would focus on what I do, not what I wear,” as per NPR.
