By Ella Sibley (Christian-UK)
I work as an assisstant chaplain at the University of Roehampton and a female muslim student invited me to take part in the World Hijab Day. It was a particularly out-and-about day for me, so definitely an interesting experience – the morning in Devon, then a coach back to London, a trip into central to meet a friend and now on to evening service at Church.
Some reactions: My friend didn’t act any differently, other than remarking that I had a pretty interesting job! My boyfriend actually said he thought it was quite pretty. I got my bag searched at the V&A museum for the first time ever (I’ve been there about ten times since moving to London). I chatted to a student on the bus who didn’t comment at all.
I think I felt more as if people are staring at me than actually were, and I definitely felt like I stick out because I’m white and a smoker – both of which are fairly unusual among women who wear the hijab! I definitely found it both warm and comfortable today though!
Ella, kudos to you for your bravery and participation. I had a fairly active day myself, and you do get some different looks and treatment. It takes courage but was worth it.