World Hijab Day: Multiculturalism in practice | Fort McMurray Today

Another example of multiculturalism in practice, encouraging greater awareness of the identities and practices of others.

But one note of caution, the assertion by Malik-Khan that its ‘mandatory for practising Muslim women.’ If the hijab is a matter of choice, it is not also a choice to be a practicing Muslim without wearing the hijab while following the  five pillars of Islam?

Locally, women are encouraged to try on a hijab — a display was set up in celebration of World Hijab Day, Sunday at Peter Pond Mall — and experience it before judging it.

“When you try it, you can speak intelligently to it,” said Kiran Malik-Khan, Word Hijab Day YMM president and organizer. “You can say, ‘I tried it and this is how I felt.’”

While Malik-Khan say it’s mandatory for practising Muslim women, she says it’s done with honour and not a symbol of oppression.

“My hijab is not for discussion. This is not something you discuss; not in government, not in lunch rooms,” Malik-Khan said of her personal decision to wear the hijab. “Oppression is really a stereotype, (that) somebody’s forcing us. Is it the father, is it the husband, is it the brother? The answer is, nobody should be forcing it on us. It is by choice and it is with heart in mind.”

The head scarf is an important aspect of a Muslim woman’s modesty, completely covering her hair and neck. When paired with full sleeves and covered legs, only the face, hands and feet are visible.

World Hijab Day: Multiculturalism in practice | Fort McMurray Today.