To many non-believers and some ignorant Muslims, those who put on the niqab (face veil) are seen as the ugliest people in the world. Some people, even among Muslims, believe niqab wearers are the most backward people of all ages.
Some even think they are unable to construct or speak simple English, let alone read a poet’s book.
The niqab is not a symbol of oppression. I am a munaqabbah (wearer of the face veil). I have never, not even once, been forced into it. I have never been threatened to wear it. No one among my family or friends has ever denied me my rights — not even my husband.
It baffles me that some people in the world we live in truly believe they have the right to dictate the kind of shoes I put on, the type of clothes I choose to wear, and how I am supposed to wear them. I believe common sense, along with the privilege Allah has given me to know right from wrong, should be enough. The fact that I can choose Aakhirah (Paradise) over Dunya is something I am grateful for. The fact that I am an adult with the same rights as everyone else should be enough. The fact that I am a woman raised with dignity and honor should be enough for anyone who sees me as a stranger among others.
My father taught us many things while we were growing up. He raised us to always respect others and never deprive anyone of their rights. I recall those days when he used to place me on his lap and ask me to read books aloud to him. He told me many things that I have never forgotten:
“You are a brave girl, and Allah has given you wisdom. You must never let anyone take your rights away from you. You are precious, and you must never give up on what belongs to you. Keep doing what you are doing; it will eventually pay off.”
There is something we must get right in our thoughts: a woman who chooses to maintain her faith and beliefs deserves respect and honor. I strongly believe it is her right to do what she likes with her body, just as it is the right of other women who dress as they please. It is her right to go around with her body covered based on her beliefs and religious convictions. I am sure none of us would want someone to take away our pride and honor.
The niqab is not a symbol of oppression because we are not restricted in what we can do as women in veils. Many of us are doctors; the writer herself is a Registered Nurse. Among us are teachers, lawyers, economists, engineers, and many others, perhaps unknown to you. Wearing a face veil has not restricted us from entering these admirable professions. We are still at the top of our game, and we will not give up — not even for a second.
Consequently, our contributions to the growth of society should not be overlooked. We are indeed among those who are selfless when it comes to assisting society at large. Do not interfere with our faith and beliefs. It is our right and our pride.
So, I advise you to ask questions if you are confused. Let us respect others’ rights and religions. I am not sure an adult woman needs to be taught how to dress, especially when she chooses to cover her beautiful body from every Jack and Harry.
The hate speech needs to stop. The frustration and molestation of our sisters in niqab need to stop. Women who choose to wear the veil should be given their due rights. Let there be justice in all that we do, and allow us to practise our faith as enshrined in the Shari’ah.
Umm Sumayyah Mai
17th Dhul-Qadah 1439AH
July 30th, 2018
