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I left my home country, Pakistan, to build a new life in Europe in 2008. Like anyone starting fresh in a new place, I wanted to fit in and be accepted by society where I would be part of. Dressing like those around me felt like the first natural step. I thought wearing my traditional clothes would make me look uneducated, outdated and most of all – an outsider – when all I wanted was to belong.

I could never imagine being offered a job or making new friends while dressed in my traditional attire. Somehow, I doubted my intelligence and abilities, and most of all, I doubted my faith, thinking that following my religious beliefs would be a hurdle on the path to worldly success.

The whole time, I was consumed by feelings of being an imposter, forced into a role that misrepresented my true self, hiding this from the world, while simultaneously living with the fear of eventually being found out. I had a strong urge to be myself, but at the same time, I was anxious about how people would react once I changed my appearance. Because in today’s world, openly declaring yourself as a Muslim is not an easy task and takes courage.

– How will people perceive me?
– Will they treat me differently?
– What will they ask, and how will I answer those questions?
– Will I be strong enough, brave enough?
– Will I feel confident enough in my own skin?

Then, in 2021, I finally gathered the courage to put my fears aside and take the step to start covering my head. That’s when I told myself: Whatever may be, whatever may come, I will face it.

Putting on the hijab is a part of my faith, but for me, this act meant openly accepting and announcing my true identity to the world. And I was lucky I received an overwhelmingly positive response to this change.

My Muslim friends congratulated me for taking this step, telling me how proud they were of me. And how they hoped they could do the same one day.

As for my non-Muslims friends and co-workers, some remained completely silent about the change, as if nothing had happened. Their behaviour toward me didn’t change, which was comforting, of course, because I was still the same person.

Others were curious and asked questions. And I felt proud of myself for being able to answer them confidently without feeling shame or guilt.

In the end, it’s not about expecting others to agree with you. It’s about standing your truth and hoping they will accept and respect you for who you are.

I am my true self now since I started covering my head. I feel complete, happy and more confident. And for me, this is just the first step in claiming my place in this world. There are still many challenges that I and other Muslim women face in Western society. Many of us are often hesitant to talk about it openly, however, we can tackle these problems one at a time and make things better for Muslim women.

Now being a part of a society that embraces open-mindedness, which allows me to express my true self within a community that values and celebrates diversity and inclusivity, and where, despite our differences, we can still live and work together harmoniously – I am truly grateful!

On #WorldHijabDay, I’ve decided to share my story publicly, not just for myself, but for every woman who has ever questioned whether she could truly be herself.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Amal Shakeb is a Strategic Marketing Communication specialist of Pakistani origin, based in the Netherlands. She is passionate about creating awareness around mental health & well-being and is a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

IG: Amalshakeb
LinkedIn: Amal-shakeb

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Nazma Khan, founder and CEO of the  World Hijab Day Organization, welcomed the resolution, stating, “This recognition is a powerful step toward fostering understanding and solidarity with Muslim women in Colorado and beyond. We are deeply grateful to Senator Jodeh for her continuous support and dedication to ensuring that every woman has the freedom to express her faith without fear or discrimination.”

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New York, NY – In a historic move celebrating diversity and inclusion, the New York State Senate has officially recognized both World Hijab Day and International Muslim History Month (IMHM) for 2025. These milestones reinforce the state’s commitment to religious freedom, cultural appreciation, and combating Islamophobia.

On January 14, 2025, the Senate passed Resolution No. 88, designating February 1, 2025, as World Hijab Day in the State of New York. This achievement was made possible through the dedicated leadership and advocacy of Senator Roxanne J. Persaud, whose unwavering support for religious expression and women’s empowerment is deeply valued. New York has recognized World Hijab Day since 2017, underscoring its ongoing commitment to celebrating inclusivity and the right to religious identity.

Further advancing Muslim representation, on January 28, 2025, the Senate passed Resolution No. 257, officially designating May 2025 as Muslim History Month in the State of New York. This historic recognition was championed by Senator Robert Jackson, whose advocacy for Muslim representation has been instrumental in raising awareness of the rich contributions of Muslim communities.

Since 2021, International Muslim History Month (IMHM) has been observed in New York as part of a global initiative led by the World Hijab Day Organization. IMHM serves as a platform to honor Muslim contributions throughout history while addressing misconceptions and combating Islamophobia.

Statement from Nazma Khan, Founder & CEO, World Hijab Day Organization

“This recognition is a testament to the resilience and contributions of Muslim communities. The hijab is often misunderstood, and World Hijab Day provides an opportunity to foster dialogue and understanding. Similarly, International Muslim History Month highlights the invaluable contributions of Muslims throughout history, breaking stereotypes and promoting unity. We are immensely grateful to Senator Roxanne J. Persaud and Senator Robert Jackson for their leadership in making this a reality. We invite people worldwide to stand with us in celebrating these milestones and building a future rooted in acceptance and respect.”

The World Hijab Day Organization invites individuals, educational institutions, and organizations worldwide to join in recognizing May as International Muslim History Month (IMHM). Whether through hosting discussions, educational events, or awareness campaigns, every effort helps amplify the voices and achievements of Muslim communities.

For more information, please contact:
World Hijab Day Organization
Email: info@worldhijabday.org

About the World Hijab Day Organization

Founded in 2013, the World Hijab Day Organization is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the hijab, dismantling stereotypes, and advocating for the rights of Muslim women. The organization also leads International Muslim History Month (IMHM), a global initiative celebrating Muslim heritage and contributions. 

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January 19, 2025 – The World Hijab Day Organization is thrilled to announce the World Hijab Day Global Virtual Conference 2025, a groundbreaking event celebrating the voices, stories, and contributions of hijabi women from around the globe. This year’s theme, “Hijabis Unsilenced,” shines a spotlight on the resilience, empowerment, and achievements of women who wear the hijab while addressing pressing global challenges such as Islamophobia and gender equity.

Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (EST)
Where to Watch:

• WorldHijabDay.com/Live
• Facebook.com/worldhijabday
• YouTube.com/worldhijabday
• Instagram.com/WorldHijabDay
• X.com/WorldHijabDay

Topics 

1. Faith and Feminism: How the Hijab Empowers Women | February 1st, 2025 | 9 AM EST/8 AM CT/2 PM GMT
2. The Impact of Islamophobia on Hijabi Women | February 1st, 2025 | 10 AM EST/9 AM CT/3 PM GMT 
3. From Silence to Strength: Personal Stories of Overcoming Adversity | February 1st, 2025 | 11 AM EST/10 AM CT/4 PM GMT
4. Hijabis on the Frontlines of Humanitarian Efforts | February 1st, 2025 | 12 PM EST/11 AM CT/5 PM GMT

Dynamic Speakers and Moderators

This year’s lineup features thought leaders, activists, and professionals who will inspire and educate attendees.

Speakers include:

• Batouly Camara – Founder & CEO, WAKE
• Sveto Muhammad Ishoq – Afghan Women’s Rights Activist
• Dr. Suzy Ismail – Director, Cornerstone
• Samra Ilyas – Executive Director, Government-Social Services
• Kiran Malik-Khan – Senior Communications Director, Tampa YMCA
• Sundas Shamshad – Founder, Sister in Cancer YMM
• Shreen Mahmood – Founder, Muslims Connect
• Fadya Risheq – Palestinian Activist

Moderators include:

• Shreen Mahmood – Humanitarian 
• Ashley Pearson Khan – Content Creator
• Khansa Chemnad – Data Scientist and Author
• Hamda Mohamed – Marketing Manager and Facilitator

A Platform for Change

The World Hijab Day Global Virtual Conference aims to foster meaningful dialogue on:

• The empowerment of hijabi women through faith and feminism.
• The impact of Islamophobia and ways to address it.
• Inspiring stories of hijabis leading humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Proceeds from the event will fund diversity workshops in schools, creating safe and inclusive environments for Muslim students.

Join the Movement

The World Hijab Day Organization invites everyone to join this free, virtual event to celebrate unity, empowerment, and the diverse experiences of hijabi women.

RSVP and Share: Join the Facebook Event Page and spread the word to your networks!

Let’s celebrate the voices that deserve to be heard. Together, we are “Hijabis Unsilenced.”

About World Hijab Day
The World Hijab Day Organization is a nonprofit organization committed to fighting discrimination against Muslim women through awareness, education, and empowerment initiatives.

For more information, visit WorldHijabDay.org

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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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 They say if these walls could speak, oh the tales they’d tell.

I say if only you could hear my hijab speak, oh how your eyes would open…

Listen with your eyes, and your heart, and through its dynamic connection

A narrative emerges, juxtaposed with ironies and sprinkled with miracles.

Speaking volumes, imparting tales as old as the beginning of time,

Of the nature of an insignificant minute creation and of its Glorious Creator,

A tale of willful submission despite having complete free will,

A tale of bold confidence, gaining strength somehow, in the face of increasing ridicule.

Without so much as letting out a whisper, you would hear my hijab declare that

I carry the heaviest of banners, displaying the grandest of messages, directly from the Ultimate of Kings, and so

I display it proudly, and without fear,

I adorn it beautifully, but with elegant simplicity, 

I wrap it mindfully, and fulfill its purpose,

I am enveloped in the warmth of a sisterhood, never feeling alone.

The silent resolve within my soul becomes my loud proclamation to the universe

To show you how from within our confines and our shroud,

We claim absolute freedom,

Not just of body, but of our soul.

That how mesmerizing it is, like peaceful snowflakes adorning the blank, dark sky, despite the name being the same,

Every woman walking expresses her touch of uniqueness to her blessed hijab,

Yet somehow each is distinctly remarkable.

That not even the heaviest of irons can chain me,

For it breaks me free of any simulated oppressions,

As I do not answer to your artificial norms, but directly to the Master of you and I.

Listen with your eyes and heart and my hijab would proclaim to you that the wearer,

Just as all those before, with, and after her,

Across seas and across times,

Who is smaller than a speck of rubble in the grand design,

Has discovered her ticket from the dust on the ground to a seat on a throne.

About the Author:

Aatika is a second generation Muslim American who strives to make her local and global community a better place, break stigmas that hold us back and engage in civic duty to unify. She holds a M.Sc. in Adolescent Psychology and has been working in the field of education administration for over 15 years in Islamic Schools. She remains involved in Islamic work through volunteering in various projects, relief work and writing, and is a continuous student of Islam. She is raising three children in NJ.

Instagram: @aatikach

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 “You’re so smart!” or “That was impressive” are among the many words that are scientifically proven to heighten one’s self-esteem and motivate a reciprocal response. We smile, maybe hold our heads up a bit higher and strut or even skip instead of walk. Therefore, not only are compliments energy boosters for us, but they also encourage us to return the compliments. To be humble or the act of humility is a virtue in many religions and lifestyles including that of Islam. While responding with another compliment or simply saying, “Thank you” to show our gratitude, we should remain humble and not become arrogant:

Abdullāh ibn Mas‘ūd (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet ﷺ said: “Anyone who has an atom’s weight of arrogance in his heart will not enter Paradise.” A man said, “What if one likes his clothes and shoes to look good?” The Prophet ﷺ said, “Verily, Allah is beautiful and He loves beauty. Arrogance is to reject the truth and look down on people.”

In other words, anything done or felt in excess can prove detrimental to the human mind:

As seen in the above chart, referenced from The National Library of Medicine, arrogance may lead to personality disorders as in degrading another person when compliments should benefit both individuals, or openness to constructive criticism that could help in reaching one’s full potential. Thus, humility is a beneficial practice for people in any profession no matter the position or in any relationship whether with family, relatives and/or friends.

Here are some tips on how to maintain humility:

1. Understand that Allah is the Highest Power and there is no greater power than Allah. Practicing regular prayer and praising Allah when we raise our hands to make du’a are two of the many methods we remember Him:

➞ ​​“Say, “O Allāh, Owner of Sovereignty, You give sovereignty to whom You will and You take sovereignty away from whom You will. You honor whom You will and You humble whom You will. In Your hand is all good. Indeed, You are over all things competent,” (Surah Ali’Imran 3.26).

➞ “So be patient over what they say and exalt [Allah] with praise of your Lord before the rising of the sun and before its setting; and during periods of the night [exalt Him] and at the ends of the day, that you may be satisfied,” (Surah Taha, 20:130).

2. Understand that humans are imperfect; thus, there is always room for development. Remember that Allah is  Al-Ghafur or Oft-Forgiving:

➞“O’ you who believe! Turn to Allah a sincere turning; maybe your Lord will remove from you, your evil and cause you to enter gardens beneath which rivers flow, on the day on which Allah will not abase the Prophet and those who believe with him; their light shall run on before them and on their right hands; they shall say: Our Lord! make perfect for us our light, and grant us protection, surely Thou hast power over all things” (Surah Al-Qamar, 66:8).”

➞“Do you not know that Allah-His is the kingdom of the heavens and the earth; He chastises whom He pleases; and forgives whom He pleases and Allah has power over all things,” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:40).

3. Giving in any way whether it is a smile or money to charity is a method in tackling one’s own ego, increasing  while attaining the best rewards from Allah. Any righteous act adds up to a worth of 83 years. Not to mention, to give zakat during Ramadan reaps rewards worth 70 times. It is also stated in the Qur’an, if one gives charity in secret, it is even better for them:

➞“Whatever of your wealth you spend, shall (first) be for your parents, and for the near

of kin, and the orphans, and the needy, and the wayfarer; and whatever good you do,

verily, God has full knowledge thereof,” (Quran Surah Al Baqarah 2:215).

➞“Charity in secret, quiets the wrath of God and takes away one’s sin as the water puts out the fire and keeps away seventy kinds of calamities.” (Charity In Quran 2:271).

4. Listen. Sometimes, we get carried away talking rather than practicing listening. There is a reason, for example, we practice listening skills or listening comprehension in the world of academia; it is a crucial skill for the real life and for our personal development as individuals in both mind and heart:

➞”And when the Quran is recited, then listen to it and pay attention so that you may receive mercy” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 204).

➞ The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak a good word or remain silent. And whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should show hospitality to his neighbor. And whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should show hospitality to his guest,” (Sahih Muslim 47).

5. Celebrate others because their success is also your success especially when you are the one congratulating them.

➞ There are five divine guidelines that the Qur’an clearly presents to Muslims for building tolerance and understanding among different religions. Everyone’s God-given human dignity must be respected, regardless of his or her faith, race, ethnic origin, gender, or social status (ref. Qur’an, 17:70).

Practice humility while reaping rewards beyond your imagination because Allah knows best.

About the Author:

Rumki Chowdhury is Editor of World Hijab Day Organization. Moreover, she is a professional editor and an award-winning published author and poet. She has an MA in English Literature from Queen Mary University of London, a BA in English Writing from William Paterson University of New Jersey and an English Subject Teaching Degree from Gävle Högskolan in Stockholm, Sweden. She speaks Bengali and Swedish fluently! She has years of experience in the media and publishing worlds. Rumki lives with her husband and their three daughters.

Instagram and Facebook @rumkitheauthor
Twitter @rumkichowdhury

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WEBSITE: https://worldhijabday.org

PRESS RELEASE

Over 150 Countries are Expected to Participate

For immediate release 12/6/2023

Women around the world will have an opportunity to take a stand against discrimination faced by Muslim girls and women for their choice of wearing the hijab. This year will be our 12th Annual World Hijab Day celebration with the theme #VeiledInStrength. 

Nazma Khan began this global initiative in 2013 after having fallen victim to verbal and physical abuse because she wore the hijab. Growing up in New York City, Nazma’s experienced heightened discrimination post 9/11, and eventually sought to open up doors for personal freedom of religious expression by inviting women around the world to walk in her shoes for one day, while donning the hijab. Hence, World Hijab Day!

There have been many milestones since, including but not limited to the declaration of February 1st as the National Hijab Day by the House of Representatives of the Philippines. 

Below are just a few of the testimonies of World Hijab Day participants: 

“I’m still confused, however, as to why some people seem to equate hijab with oppression. I found nothing oppressive about covering my head at all. On the contrary, it was liberating not having to constantly worry about my hair.” [Tia StoneJaa, non-Muslim, USA]

“It’s commonly believed that wearing a veil is a form of sexual discrimination. I didn’t find it to be so. To my surprise, the veil was strangely liberating, an unapologetic form of self-expression.” [Joe Galvez, Catholic, Philippines]

Whether you are an individual, educational institution, business, nonprofit organization, a member of any faith community, or any other type of organization, you have an unique opportunity to participate. Here are 10 ways to get involved with the 12th Annual World Hijab Day on February 1st, 2024:

1. Wear a Hijab: Participate in our global event, World Hijab Day (WHD), on February 1st, by covering your hair with a headscarf. Men can show support by wrapping a winter scarf around their neck or wearing an “I Support The Right Of Hijab” badge/pin/sticker. Post participation selfies on social media with the hashtags #VeiledInStrength & #WorldHijabDay. Tag us @WorldHijabDay.

2. Increase Awareness: Join us in amplifying awareness for World Hijab Day by sharing the campaign’s graphics across your social media platforms and personal blogs/vlogs. For detailed guidance, explore our Social Media Toolkit here for step-by-step instructions.

3. Organize an Event: Host a World Hijab Day (WHD) community event to involve everyone in the community to come together and bridge the gap of religious respect and understanding. WHD events can encompass a wide array of activities, such as arranging informative booths, providing hijab styling assistance, hosting workshops, organizing conferences, facilitating peaceful walks, and much more! Feature your event on our website by registering here. Post WHD event pictures and videos on social media with the hashtags #VeiledInStrength & #WorldHijabDay.Tag us @WorldHijabDay.

4. Fundraiser: Set up a fundraising page on Facebook and/or Instagram and inspire your friends and family to contribute towards advancing World Hijab Day’s mission of tackling discrimination against girls and women who wear hijab. Find step-by-step guidance for setting up your fundraiser below:

Facebook fundraiser setup: 

• • Create a new post 
  • Click Raise Money (under the post)
  • Choose a cover photo and fill in the Fundraiser details. (Set your fundraising goal min. $200. Don’t be afraid to go big!) 
  • Click Create.

Instagram fundraiser setup: 

• • Visit Instagram handle @WorldHijabDay
  • Click Support in bio
  • Click Create Fundraiser 
  • Add photo and fill in the Fundraiser details. (Set your fundraising goal min. $200. Don’t be afraid to go big!) 
  • Click Share Fundraiser 

5. Educate Yourself: Take the time to educate yourself about the history, styles, and cultural variations of hijab to gain a deeper understanding.

6. Foster Inclusivity: Encourage inclusivity and acceptance in your community by speaking out against discrimination or stereotypes related to hijab.

7. Reach Out to Muslim Friends: If you have Muslim friends or acquaintances, engage in open and respectful conversations with them to understand their experiences and challenges.

8. 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.

9. 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! 

10. Support Us: Join us in celebrating the 12th annual World Hijab Day by making a meaningful donation of $12 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. 

For media inquiries, email us at info@worldhijabday.org

The post World Hijab Day Organization’s 12th Annual “World Hijab Day” Celebration appeared first on World Hijab Day.

“One month before Ramadan!” said my 13-year-old daughter and I started to look at decor inspiration. This year, because I have a newborn, I let her decide how she wanted to decorate with the help of her 6-year-old sister. We spent days planning and looking and on the Sunday before Ramadan, we were finished with the decorating.

I often wonder why I decorate and why I make such a big fuss over it. I do it because it’s such an amazing month. We are so excited when it arrives. The thought of wasting any second on this blessed month hurts the heart. My friends and I use the term, “purify your intentions” and some may not understand it, some may even find the term offensive. (I said it to someone once and they got very upset). What we mean by this is, “Check your intentions so that whatever you do, you are doing it for Allâh’s sake.” It is important to say this and do this consciously, with your heart and mind, aiming to be rewarded by Allâh.

Moreover, it is a challenge when so much we do is lacking real thought or reflection when Islam has clear reminders. We could reflect for the sake of our children; we could do it to motivate others, we could do it because it looks good, enhancing the beauty of the holiday. In all of these cases, we get what we often intended – the satisfaction of others, but we need to remember it’s for Allâh.

During Ramadan, I consciously remind myself to check and to purify my intention. When I’m cooking, I would say, “Allah, reward me for preparing iftar for the ones fasting.” When I give iftar to someone, I’d say, “Allah, reward me for giving others food.” So this became my first Ramadan goal!

This year, in particular, I took photographs of my children in celebration of Ramadan and shared it with family and friends. I want them to really understand how special Ramadan is and can always be. May Allah bless my children, Ameen.

Then, it made me think of the “evil eye,” some may call it “nazar” or “ayn.” It is when someone sees your endowment or even hears about it and has a bad intention as a result: Ibn Abbas reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “The evil eye is real. If anything could precede the divine decree, it would be preceded by the evil eye. When you are asked to perform a ritual bath, then do so” (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2188).

My third Ramadan goal is to recite a du^â’ every morning and evening, praying to Allah for the protection of my children and my husband. The du^â’ is: “Allaahumma das-sultaani l’Adheem. Wa manni Qadeem. Dar-RaHmati Kareem. Waliya lkalimaati taammaat. Wad dawaati mustajaabaat. Aafiyy (name or names of the individuals praying for) min anfusi ljinni wa l’ayooni l’Ins.” In Arabic, it is:

دعاء للحفظ من الحسد ومن العين

اللهم ذا السلطانِ العظيم

والمَنّ ِ القديم

ذا الرحمةِ الكريم

وَلِيَّ الكلماتِ التاماتِ والدعواتِ المستجاباتِ عافني

مِن أنفُسِ الجنّ وأعينِ الإنس.

٣ مرات صباحا ومساء

My fourth Ramadan goal is to give charity everyday of even £5 so that we are rewarded for every day we give rather than giving a big sum on one specific day, but also to give on Laylatul Qadr. We do not know which day it may fall, therefore by giving it every day, you can guarantee you will give it on Laylatul Qadr and what better day to do than on this day!

Lastly, my final Ramadan goal is to finish my housework one hour before iftar and make a long du^â.’ It is said that the du^â’made on this last hour of fast is most likely to be accepted so how can we miss this opportunity?!

I hope my goals have helped you, slightly, if so make du^â’ for me. And Allâh knows best.

About the Author:

Hafizah Choudhury was born and raised in UK, Birmingham. She is married with two beautiful daughters and a son. She is a secondary school science teacher in Wiltshire, UK in a small town called, Calne. In her spare time Hafizah tutors science, including Chemistry A level and she has passion for teaching and learning Islamic studies. She really enjoys singing and was part of a nasheed band back in Birmingham, and looking to start a nasheed band in Wiltshire.

@hufayzah

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