World Hijab Day is not about taking a fashion risk. It is not about fetish zing a religion or a culture paired with it. It is about standing with our sisters in unity, with reverence and respect. It is a sacred opportunity to remember and honor religious heritage, whether it is our own or our sister’s. It is about re-discovering the beauty of choice, and reminding those around us that hijab is not a symbol of oppression. It is a day to humble oneself and to remember God. I believe events like World Hijab Day are absolutely vital to our society. It promotes unity and growth, while squashing stereotypes—things we are ever in dire need of. To my non-veiled/non-Muslim sisters: February 1st, 2014, we have the incredible privilege of participating in World Hijab Day. Aside from wearing a hijab, maybe for the first time, use this day to observe the people around you and their verbal and nonverbal responses to you. Use this day to promote healthy, respectful interfaith dialogue with family and peers. Remember, to strangers, you will most likely appear to be Muslim, so be sure to not do anything that would portray Muslims or Islam in a negative or hypocritical light. Ordering a BLT at your favorite sandwich joint—unless its turkey bacon—or wearing a hijab to the bar…bad idea! Dressing modestly, however, is a really good idea. Carry yourself with the dignity and self-respect that you and your sisters and worthy of. At the end of the day, reflect on your experience. Allow your experiences to mold your thoughts and perspective. If you’re religious, end your day with saying a prayer for your veiled sisters. Ask God to shield them from discrimination, and to protect them from those that would act hatefully toward them due to their hijab. May we all learn something on February 1st, and carry those lessons we learn with us for the rest of our lives.
Posted on: Tue, 28 Jan 2014 11:04:56 +0000
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