World Hijab Day Organization surrounds the importance of promoting and protecting the rights of all individuals, including their right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion or belief.

World Hijab Day is an annual event that takes place on February 1st to raise awareness about the hijab and dismantle stereotypes associated with Muslim women who choose to wear it. The event aims to foster personal freedom of religious expression and understanding, promote diversity, and encourage dialogue among people of all faiths and backgrounds. Our surveys of past World Hijab Day participants have shown that two-thirds of the participants had a positive experience that changed their view on the hijab. They also expressed that they became more tolerant toward other nationalities and Islam.  According to recent research, people who learn about Islam and Muslims are not Islamophobic (Institute for Social Policy and Understanding, 2021).

Thus, the mission of World Hijab Day Organization is to dismantle bigotry, discrimination, and prejudice against Muslim women through awareness, education, and empowerment. Independent of any political ideology or economic interest, our vision is to create a world where we’re united through our diversity.  

How did the World Hijab Day Organization begin?

In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, Muslim women who wore a hijab (headscarf), including myself, faced discrimination and harassment (American Civil Liberties Union). One expert found that 69% of women who wore hijab reported at least one incident of discrimination compared to 29% of women who did not wear hijab (Women’s Rights Project, 2008). I have personally faced discrimination for wearing the hijab in New York City which led me to create World Hijab Day. I have shared my story in a recent TEDx talk which can be viewed here. Therefore, I declared World Hijab Day on February 1st, 2013, not realizing that so many sisters would find appreciation in the initiative and joined me in the celebration. It didn’t take long before World Hijab Day became a global phenomenon ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّٰهِ (Praise be to God). 

World Hijab Day is commemorated by people in over 150 countries and has been recognized by New York State, Michigan State, Oklahoma State, the City of Gainsville, Florida, Newark, New Jersey, and the House of Representatives of the Philippines.

In support of World Hijab Day, New York State Governor, Kathy Hochul, made the following statement:

“Here in New York, we are proud to recognize World Hijab Day, the important occasion that is. Wearing Hijab is a deeply personal and noble decision, one made by millions of faithful Muslim women around the world. Unfortunately, that decision requires a tremendous amount of bravery as well. Too many Muslim women are subjected to daily acts of bigotry, hate, and Islamophobia for doing nothing more than following their faith, including right here in NY. This movement was started by one of those brave New Yorkers, Nazma Khan, who should be a source of pride for every person who lives here. I want to personally thank her for all she has done to confront discrimination against Muslim women.”

How do we celebrate World Hijab Day on February 1st?

The world is full of creatives such as yourselves and we welcome anyone who celebrates the hijab in a positive light for both males and females. 

Wear a scarf: To show solidarity with Muslim hijabi women worldwide, men are encouraged to wear scarves around their necks while women are encouraged to try on headscarves for a day. 

Make a Commitment: Commit to standing up against discrimination towards girls and women who wear the hijab by taking our pledge today! Click here to pledge! 

Send us images: If you are comfortable, send in your photograph to us via our website here with your personal hijab experience which we will publicize on our social media.

Send us an article: You are also welcome to share your stories with us through articles for our blog. Submit article here. 

Organize awareness campaigns/events: The complete guide to how to celebrate World Hijab Day can be found here. We got you covered (catch the pun?) with an entire social media toolkit and letters to your employer and the principal of your school among facilities, highlighting why you believe we should all celebrate World Hijab Day. If you are hosting a World Hijab Day event, please register here to be featured on our website and social media platforms. 

Recognition: Support World Hijab Day in gaining national and international recognition by seeking official proclamations. This effort aims to advance the cause of religious freedom, foster cultural understanding, and strengthen global solidarity. More information, click here.

Support Us: Join us in celebrating World Hijab Day by making a meaningful donation of $10 here today! Your contribution is more than just a financial gift; it empowers us to dismantle bigotry, discrimination, and prejudice against hijab wearing girls and women through awareness, education and empowerment.

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