NEWS RELEASE
AHMADIYYA MUSLIM WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION
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The Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association hosted a unique and interactive event (Saturday) to celebrate World Hijab Day, inviting women of all backgrounds to experience the hijab first-hand.
The initiative aimed to foster understanding, break misconceptions, and promote meaningful dialogue about modesty, diversity, and cultural awareness. Participants had the opportunity to try on a hijab, engage in discussions about its significance, and ask questions in a welcoming environment. Volunteers from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association shared personal experiences, explaining that the hijab is not just a piece of fabric but a profound expression of faith, identity, and modesty.
The hijab, which means “cover” or “barrier” in Arabic, is more than just an item of clothing; it is a symbol of dignity, modesty, and spiritual devotion. Muslim women who observe the hijab do so as an act of obedience to Allah’s command, as well as a means of self-respect and empowerment. In Islam, modesty is a virtue for both men and women.
The Qur’an states: “Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that will make for greater purity for them … And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what must ordinarily appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms …” (Qur’an 24:30-31)
This verse highlights that modesty is not just about dress but also about behaviour, speech, and interactions. It promotes respect and dignity in society. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) further emphasized the importance of modesty, stating: “Modesty is part of faith.” (Sahih Muslim, 35:1)
For many Muslim women, the hijab is a source of confidence and strength, allowing them to define their identity on their own terms. It is not a sign of oppression but of freedom and self-respect, countering the misconception that it is imposed upon them.
One of the event organizers shared, “World Hijab Day is about education and inclusivity. We want to create an open space where women from all backgrounds can learn about the hijab, ask questions, and experience it themselves.”
Many attendees expressed appreciation for the event, saying it helped them better understand the meaning behind the hijab. A participant remarked, “Trying on the hijab made me realize it’s not just about covering the head. It carries deep spiritual and cultural significance.”
The event also highlighted the diversity within Islam, as women from different ethnicities and backgrounds shared their perspectives. By engaging in constructive discussions, attendees were able to challenge stereotypes and gain a more authentic understanding of Islamic teachings. While the hijab is an Islamic practice, modesty is a universal value found in many cultures and religions.
The event encouraged interfaith and intercultural dialogue, showing that dressing modestly and carrying oneself with dignity and self-respect is appreciated across societies. As the event concluded, organizers encouraged attendees to continue these conversations beyond World Hijab Day, fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding.
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association’s World Hijab Day event in Bradford was a successful step toward breaking barriers and building bridges. In a time when misunderstandings about Islam persist, initiatives like these help create a more inclusive and informed society — one where diversity is embraced and respected.
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