The Mask We Refuse to Remove

In the heart of Malta’s bustling Republic Street, a man walks past a group of tourists, his face adorned with a mask. But it’s not the kind you’d expect in these pandemic times. It’s a henné tattoo, a traditional North African design, a stark contrast to the medieval architecture surrounding him. This is not an isolated incident. Across Malta, people are wearing masks – not just to protect against COVID-19, but as a symbol of identity, culture, and defiance.

Malta’s Masked Tradition

Malta’s love affair with masks dates back centuries. Our carnival, Il-Karnival ta’ Malta, is a testament to this. The streets of Valletta, Mdina, and other towns transform into a vibrant spectacle of colour and creativity, with participants donning elaborate masks to conceal their identities. It’s a time for anonymity, laughter, and liberation. But why the fascination with masks?

Dr. Joseph Farrugia, a Maltese historian, explains, “Masks have always been a part of Maltese culture. They’ve allowed us to explore our darker sides, to laugh at our foibles, and to question authority. They’ve been a tool for social commentary and a means of expressing ourselves freely.”

Masks of Defiance

Today, masks are not just about fun and games. They’ve become symbols of defiance, of pushing back against the status quo. Take the Il-Maskott, a weekly street art project that’s been painting masks on walls across Malta since the pandemic began. Each mask tells a story, reflects a sentiment – from anger at government decisions to hope for a better future.

Artist and Il-Maskott creator, Andrew Borg, says, “Masks have become a way for people to express their feelings, their frustrations. They’re a silent scream, a way of saying, ‘I’m here, I matter, I won’t be silenced.'”

Masks of Identity

For some, masks are a way to reclaim and celebrate their identity. In Malta’s migrant communities, masks are used in cultural festivals to honour their heritage. The Festa ta’ San Pawl Mrieħu in Msida, for instance, sees participants wearing traditional Ghanaian masks, a nod to the African diaspora in Malta.

Malta’s LGBTQ+ community has also embraced masks as a symbol of pride and resilience. During last year’s Pride march, many participants wore masks adorned with rainbows, a powerful statement of visibility and unity.

As we navigate these rare times, masks have become a part of our daily lives. But in Malta, they’re more than just a means of protection. They’re a symbol of our culture, our identity, our defiance. They’re the mask we refuse to remove.

So, the next time you see someone wearing a mask in Malta, remember, it’s not just about safety. It’s about who we are, where we come from, and where we’re going.

“The mask is not just a piece of cloth,” says Dr. Farrugia. “It’s a mirror reflecting our society, our history, our spirit.”