Member-only story
Why I’m Against the Niqab
But also against its ban
Last week, while walking outside, I saw a woman covered completely in black, like the above picture. I couldn’t see her face or her hands, which were gloved. I could barely see her eyes. It was quite hot out that day. I was dressed lightly and still struggled with the heat. And I wondered why she was subjecting herself to this.
I come from a religious Muslim family. All of the older women wear the hijab, but none cover their faces or hands. They wear colorful djellabas and beautiful headscarves, with exotic birds and flowers on them. We joke and laugh with male shop owners and taxi drivers. We share stories and connect with everyone, no matter their gender.
Why would God want me to cover myself in that manner? Wasn’t I created just like men were created? Why am I so tempting that my ankles need to be hidden?
I happen to enjoy breathing fresh air and feeling the sun on my skin. Did you know that Arab women experience particularly high Vitamin D deficiency? I regularly have my levels checked and they’re always low, requiring me to supplement.
Because of the culture here and the constant daily street harassment I receive, even while covered, my tank tops, dresses, and shorts stay in a suitcase until it's time to travel to Europe where I can display my arms and…
