Art Not Fiction

For some reason, it’s widely accepted that consumers can demand suppliers be “neutral”—usually expressed as “stay out of politics.” I outlined my take on this in Art with Bias, but recent conversations make me feel I should be more blunt: I reject that fiction; particularly at a time when official channels continue to suppress, ignore, or outright shut down voices that don’t chant to power.

Neutrality risks becoming complicity; especially when demanded by those uncomfortable with relaying voices of the opressed.

Art has never been neutral. Commerce has never been neutral. Media, design, entertainment—all are soaked in ideology, even when pretending otherwise. So no, I will not strip the politics out of my reality. If that makes people uneasy, it should.

Recently, a few members from my small but growing community told me some people had left my brand because I am being "political".

I expected it, but I am indifferent. In fact, through the lens of human dignity we're all entitled to, I am glad.

I am glad that my blends are not used to adorn their world—a world where justice is rationed to the powerful and privilege is disguised as entitlement.

For me, it is not about comfort or convenience. It is about whether I am willing to bow to the pressure of profit, or to the expectations of those whose moral compass follows what's comfortable.

I wonder if they, who profess the “separate politics from business" argument, realize that taking a stance is as much politics as not taking one.

Silence is a choice. Indifference is a choice. I made mine. They can make theirs.

Yes, I’ve had customers leave. I’ve had social media accounts banned. I was let go from a job for my unwavering stance against war-for-profit and colonization. That’s a price. And it pales compared to what’s going on. The worth is greater: refusing silence and standing with the collective voice that is shifting the narrative on Zionism.

Palestine was nearly forgotten. The struggles that the Nakba generation endured to raise the next one were nearly erased. Don’t be fooled into thinking it started in—or because of—October 2023. It began more than 75 years ago, and has continued ever since—with more gore, more horror, more entitlement, and more evil. It is nothing short of demonic.

I am open to discussion. We can talk history, theology, logic, and all else. But if someone insists on my silence, I have nothing further to say except: “You’re welcome to explore the work of other perfumers."

For those who celebrate the independence of their state, here are a few questions for you: Do you also celebrate the resistance, which made it a reality? Do you teach your young about the sacrifices of the previous generations? Would you not write about and speak against the exploitation and colonization of your state?

I am not asking you or anyone to take a stance for Palestine. I am only pointing out that you should not expect me to abandon mine.

If I have a voice, a platform, and the ability to be vocal. Then, God willing, I will.

For me, Palestine is worth it.

Maher