Teaching world history allows me to encourage students to look at past and current events through diverse perspectives. In doing so, my hope is that one day students will use their voices to raise awareness through understanding, compassion, and empathy for people around the world. It is the power of knowledge that will overcome the misconceptions that too often divide people. One of my students did exactly that, she used her voice to invite me to participate in World Hijab Day 2015. Almost instantly my eyes swelled with tears of joy, I was honored as she explained, “I thought you might want to participate because that’s just who you are; you really care about other people.” As if this moment wasn’t enough, her mother stopped by and brought a Hijab for me to wear, and we shared a conversation that I will treasure deeply.

Wearing the Hijab was an incredibly powerful experience. I felt liberated from society’s view which dictates the latest fashion trends, in fact, never did I feel as regal as I did today. I stood tall with my head held high and felt in control of my image, beautiful and strong.

Today, I wore the Hijab in honor of my student, and her mother, who reminded me that one simple gesture can positively impact someone else’s life. Thank you for granting me with this unforgettable experience!

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I converted into Islam almost one year ago (May 7, 2013). I never thought I would fall in love with a religion so beautifully humble. I’ve come a long way from where I was a year ago. I used to roam this world with an empty feeling inside my heart before Islam. People always ask me what is my testimony from Islam. I could name them the many blessings Allah has sent me this past year but that still couldn’t sum everything. So I simply reply with a smile and say my happiness is my testimony. I found that not only did my life spiritually change but so has my life around me. One week after I converted into Islam I began to wear my Hijab. I had let my parents know I converted so I felt that I had nothing holding me back from covering. I have always been a person that would careless what the people around me think, so when I wore my Hijab people would stare and I would smile back thanking Allah for blessing me with happiness. I think wearing the Hijab is such a beautiful look on women and I support WHD. Knowing that all around the world there are millions of women feeling as empowered and beautiful as I do is what fuels my spirit with happiness. Subhanallah I even saw my younger sister who is not Muslim wearing Hijab with me. Inshallah I will continue learning more about Islam so I can enlighten those around me of the peaceful religion.

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