My Hijab, My Choice

By Sarah Mohammed

“Empowerment,” I say.

“No, oppression,” they say.

Those words linger in the back of my mind, haunting me, chasing after me, as I desperately try to escape it. At the age of 13, right as I entered high school, I decided to put on the hero’s cape that is the hijab. It was a symbol of empowerment; a means to reassure myself of my Iman and my religion. Though I stood out, it was something that made me comfortable in my own skin. Everyday I wore it, I was reminded of Allah (SWT) and how He would never put me through a hardship I could not handle. I was fortunate enough to be met by supportive reactions, from my friends and family. I was fortunate enough to be placed in an inclusive high school, with many other hijabis that stood by my journey of self discovery and finding my identity.

Initially, I was unsure about what wearing the hijab would mean. I not only had to commit to it, but also serve as a role model and a representative for Muslims. I had to take into consideration my character, how other people viewed me, and my morals. It was a lot to digest and I had my doubts about whether wearing it was, in a sense, worth it. I had the option of choosing not to wear it and go on with my life. However, after much debate, I decided to wear it and I have not looked back since. Despite my choice to wear it, I still acknowledge that others may be forced to wear it or live in an environment that doesn’t allow them to wear it freely without judgement. As a hijabi, I always make sure I respect other Muslims girls regardless of their choice to wear the hijab or not. By creating an inclusive space for all Muslims, we can work to empower each other and strengthen our deen.

Through my journey as a hijabi, there were bumps along the way. There were times I did not feel “Muslim” enough to wear a hijab - I felt as though my mistakes and past sins made me not worthy as a person to wear a hijab. Despite these setbacks, it has only motivated me further to persevere and continue my way onto self discovery. By wearing the hijab, I hope to break down stereotypes, including how we are supposedly oppressed. The hijab was my choice, and will always be mine. It is something I had control over, and in no way limits me in life. I hope that wearing the hijab will help me continue to grow as a better person, a better Muslim, and a better role model.