My journey as a substitute teacher in a public school in Columbus, Ohio, began in January 2018. I was eager to make a positive impact on the students, dressed professionally in a long-sleeved shirt and dress pants, and wore my hijab as a symbol of my faith and tradition in the Muslim community. However, my excitement quickly turned to disappointment when the principal informed me that it would be my first and last day at the school just by looking at me with a frown. The reason? I looked too different, and the students would not accept me, according to the principal and the classroom assistant. The majority of the staff and students were white, making me feel out of place and questioning if my appearance and Muslim identity influenced their decision.
This incident was just the beginning of the challenges I faced as a hijabi and Muslim woman in a predominantly white school. The hijab is often misunderstood and unfairly stereotyped in Islam, creating barriers for acceptance and understanding. Despite these obstacles, I believe in the importance of sharing my story to foster a better understanding of Muslim culture and women’s identity and to create a more inclusive educational environment for Muslim educators and students.
A Lasting Impression
Being fired from my first teaching job was a traumatic experience that would repeat itself due to my Muslim identity. Moving on to another teaching position, I faced more skepticism and prejudice, with questions about my hijab and identity. However, it wasn’t until I became the lead Arabic teacher at my current school in 2019 that I found a fellow Muslim colleague at a professional conference. She shared her struggles of conforming and hiding her identity to fit in, illustrating the pressures and challenges Muslims face daily.
Even within a diverse student body, divisions exist, with social interactions often segregated based on religious and cultural differences. Misconceptions about the hijab and Islam persist, leading to discrimination and fear among students and educators alike. As a teacher, I witness firsthand the impact of these biases on my students, compelling me to address and challenge these prejudices head-on.
Humanizing the Hijab
My experiences have shaped my approach to advocacy and education, inspiring me to organize cultural awareness sessions, mentorship programs, and dialogue clubs to foster understanding and inclusivity. By amplifying diverse voices and promoting dialogue, I aim to dismantle barriers, celebrate differences, and create a welcoming environment for all students and educators.
Despite the challenges and biases I face as a Muslim teacher, I remain steadfast in my identity, faith, and commitment to educating and inspiring my students. I believe that by embracing diversity and supporting one another, we can create a culture of respect and acceptance in our educational institutions.
The Journey Continues
As I reflect on my journey as a Muslim teacher in a predominantly white school, I recognize the challenges and rewards that have shaped my experiences. My decision to wear a hijab is a testament to my identity, faith, and resilience, not a stereotype to be undermined. Through advocacy, dialogue, and collaboration, I strive to create an environment where every student and educator feels valued and respected.
Together, we can break down barriers, challenge misconceptions, and build a more inclusive educational landscape where diversity is celebrated, and all voices are heard.
