‘With hate crimes against Muslim-Americans tripling in 2016, it is important we take this moment to stand together with our fellow Americans on World Hijab Day. Rooted in the American principles of religious freedom and liberty, the World Hijab Day movement seeks to end the discrimination and judgment that comes with wearing a hijab.’

‘As the prime Assembly sponsor of the ‘Religious Garb’ bill in New York State, A2049, I stand with all Americans of faith regardless of their choice to wear a hijab, kippah, turban, or cross. All Americans of all faiths should be allowed to freely exercise and display their religious choice without the fear of violence and bigotry.’

Today’s statement follows several actions Assemblyman David Weprin has taken to protect religious attire in New York. In 2005, then New York City Councilman Weprin stood with the Sikh Coalition and introduced a bill barring city agencies from discriminating on the basis of religious headdress. Similarly, in 2014, Assemblyman Weprin was the prime sponsor of the ‘Religious Garb’ bill in Albany. Passing with a 131-6 vote, the bill protects equal employment opportunities for all New Yorkers, regardless of religious attire and facial grooming.

About Assemblyman David I Weprin:

Elected in 2010, David I. Weprin represents the 24th Assembly District of New York State in Queens. Comprised of the partial or entire communities of Briarwood, Bellrose Manor, Fresh Meadows, Glen Oaks, Hillcrest, Holliswood, Jamaica Estates, Jamaica Hills, Oakland Gardens, Queens Village, Richmond Hill, and Utopia; the 24th Assembly district boasts one of the most diverse constituencies in New York State.

About World Hijab Day:
Founded by New York native Nazma Khan in 2013, World Hijab Day is a means to foster religious tolerance and understanding by inviting women to experience the hijab for one day.

View the original Letter: Click Here

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A large number of non-Muslims show great support for our sisters and get a first hand feel of the hijab by donning it for a day.

Amongst other benefits from last years experience was that many non-Muslims have since actively supported the hijab and show greater appreciation and respect for hijabis.

The idea is also to support those of us shying away due to the incorrect perceptions of the hijab to take the steps we’ve been longing to take.

When the world understands what hijab is, where it comes from and why it is donned, it will appreciate that banning it would do more harm than good.

World Hijab Day is simply to create awareness and educate the world and because reminding is beneficial to all, World Hijab Day is held annually.

Source: Mufti Menk Facebook Fan page 

The post World Hijab Day – 1st February by Mufti Ismail Menk appeared first on World Hijab Day.