I grew up in the north shore which you probably know is one of the most racist parts of Sydney, Australia in my opinion. I grew up thinking Muslims were bad and women beaters.  My ex who was a white Australian (like myself) HATED them, and ironically, he ended up being abusive to me. I have never been so hurt in my whole life.

After having to leave and move, I ended up seeing and meeting some Muslim women at my kids’ school and my hairdresser’s.  They were such beautiful nice people. The funny thing is, if I passed by a Muslim woman, I would never think of her as a drug addict or slept around.  All I could see is modesty and elegance.  I was so fascinated by their hijab and niqab. So, I started researching Islam and the Quran. I questioned my hairdresser for hours and absorbed everything she was saying like a sponge.

I remember going past a $2 shop and seeing a slip on hijab. It was on my mind for weeks. So the next time I was there, I spent my last $5 on it.  I remember I couldn’t wait ’till I got home and slip it on. Before I even got onto the main street, I felt  like a new person. I felt protected. Since then I have  been slowly on my path… I do not want to take the shahadah (testimony of Islamic faith) until I absorb everything.  So, I can proudly wear the Islamic name without bringing any shame to its name.  As a result, it can be beautiful to others.
I love Islam and it excites me so much.  

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By Stephanie Elizabeth Kelly (Queensland, Australia)

I think the World Hijab Day page is amazing.  It is inspiring to see so many powerful women unashamed and unapologetic for their beliefs. I personally do not identify with any religion but I believe strongly that everyone should be able to express their beliefs without having to fear persecution. My best friend in the whole world is a Muslim and I have experienced the judgment and cruel words that she has received because of this. She has felt scared to express her religious beliefs with people due to this. So today I wore a hijab for her and for everyone else who faces persecution for their beliefs. Islam is a religion of peace, love, respect, and charity. If people see anything negative in it then that is an issue with them not Islam. Stay strong and stay true to who you are.

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