SEPTEMBER 4th commemorates World Hijab Day, a global celebration of the practice of hijab, an integral part of Islam for women. Just as offering prayers (Namaz) is obligatory, wearing hijab is also compulsory for women. We will be held accountable for it. However, many sisters in our society don’t take it seriously, ignoring it and claiming that pure intentions are enough. While intentions are important, practically wearing hijab is not a choice, but an order from Allah that we must follow. “O Prophet, enjoin your wives and your daughters and the believing women, to draw a part of their outer coverings around them. It is likelier that they will be recognized and not molested. Allah is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (33:59)
Women in our society face discouragement from wearing hijab due to obstacles like workplace dress codes, societal stereotypes, and educational institutions’ restrictions. These biases limit their opportunities in fields like education, employment, and healthcare. From being told to remove their hijab for job interviews to facing social media backlash, women encounter numerous concrete barriers that deter them from practicing hijab.
Behind the facade of modernity, our society still discriminates against and marginalizes women who practice hijab. Society struggles to accept them, limiting opportunities in various fields. Hijabis’ are frequently discriminated against, denied jobs despite their skills, and subjected to prejudice. As a witness, I have observed many women being challenged and triggered simply for practicing hijab. This unjust treatment must end.
We need to promote hijab and support women who wear it, smashing the stereotype that hijab hinders success. Instead, we should recognize that hijab empowers us, providing self-autonomy and security. Let’s embrace hijab as a symbol of empowerment and encourage those held back by societal pressure to take the first step towards wearing it with confidence. Acknowledging the importance of hijab will not hinder their path to success but liberate them from societal expectations, allowing them to embrace their true identity as confident, capable, and empowered women. It’s time to stand up for hijabis’ and celebrate their strength.
We must assert that hijab is not a barrier to success but a symbol of resilience and determination. To all hijabis’, I say: own your hijab, hold your self-esteem high, and don’t let the cruel world pull you down. Embrace your hijab, and never let anyone diminish your worth. Together, let’s create a society that values diversity, inclusivity, and acceptance, where hijabis’ can thrive without fear of discrimination or prejudice.
— The writer is contributing columnist, based in Rawalpindi.
