I am a very recent convert to Islam (former Catholic, then former atheist). But I have always loved the hijab and admired hijabis. In my opinion, hijab is beautiful. Hijab is liberating because it allows women to choose who is permitted to see their beauty given by Allah (swt). This World Hijab Day (WHD), I wore my hijab outside for the first time. And I haven’t taken it off since!

In Moscow, there are millions of Muslims (perhaps the city with the most Muslims in Europe). There are many hijabis here. I get some ugly looks and people sometimes mock me, but alhamdulilah I feel safe. In fact, I feel safer as a Muslim in Moscow than I did in the US. When I must return to the US, I fear I may end up removing my hijab until I can feel safe enough to wear it proudly again. Inshallah, I will be strong and protected in the face of hatred.

Hijabis are visible ambassadors of Islam. Wearing hijab helps me to control my temper, quiet my tongue if I want to say something nasty, and remember to be kind and charitable. It is a constant reminder that Allah (swt) is with me always. We as Muslims have a responsibility to Allah, a responsibility to the Ummah, and a responsibility to the world. We must act in the way Allah has commanded. As hijabis, we are a reflection on Islam and on Allah. Be proud of who you are, and live life in peace and submission to the will of Allah (swt).

Always remember: Compelling a woman to wear hijab is against Islam, and forcing her to remove it is against her human rights! Hijab: My right, my choice, my life.

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