Today marks World Hijab Day, a global movement that encourages religious expression and cultural understanding; and recognizes millions of Muslim women who choose to wear a hijab. 

Founded by New York native and Muslim woman, Nazma Khan, the day is meant to encourage all women to experience the hijab for one day out of the year as well as to educate others on why the hijab is worn. 

Now in its 11th year, organizations from around the world continue to participate in World Hijab Day to honour and celebrate women’s rights and religious expression. 

To celebrate World Hijab Day today, we asked Grade 6/7 students Hiba Masri, Sedra Alabdallah and Moqadasa Nawa to share their reflections on what the hijab means to them:

“The hijab, commonly known as a headscarf, is a scarf that covers your head. It is a symbol of internal and external modesty and is worn to cover your hair and to keep a modest appearance.

A hijab is mostly worn by Muslim women and girls. Some girls start wearing a hijab as soon as they hit their teen years, but it is also up to when you and your family to decide when you feel comfortable wearing it. 

Wearing a hijab is really cool. Not only does it keep your head warm, but you can add your own style or design to how you wear it. When I wear the hijab, it represents who I am as a respectful woman following the culture that I believe in. 

It makes me feel safe and protected. When I see another woman or girl wearing a hijab, it also makes me feel that I’m not alone.” 

Today on World Hijab Day, we celebrate the women and girls who choose to wear the hijab as an expression of their freedom of religion. 

Photo credit: Jesse Kaufman. Courtesy of the UFV South Asian Studies Institute