Not only is the vail a part of religion to the Muslim culture for women, but it is also a sense of protection. While reading Marysan Haydar's, Veiled Intentions: Don't Judge a Muslim Girl by Her Covering, I learned more about the reason why they were the veils which surpassed the stereotype I had once believed. I always believed that Muslim women wore the dress coverings and veils because in their religion men forced them to cover up, which isn't true. Marysan explains many advantages why they wear them including safety and choice. Personally, I feel there are a few disadvantages including freedom of expression and experiences in life.
Marysan believes that the veil provides safety in the way that people do not judge her when looking at her and that she won't be harassed. I agree with this because it is true she won't be judged for what she is wearing, her hair, or makeup. But I do believe people will judge her because she is wearing the veil. She also discusses how it's her choice to wear the veil, not because she is forced too. I believe that even though it is her choice to wear the veil she is missing out on doing her hair and extra things a girl goes through to get ready. She is also missing out on things she feels are "damaging experiences" (Haydar 415) which are things in life you go through to make mistakes and learn from, that shape how you are as a person.
I don't necessarily think that she is missing out on anything if she never gets harassed by a man. Her veil serves as a way for a man to see her as the person she is on the inside and inside only. Her appearance does not matter to her which is why she doesn't feel like she is missing out on doing her hair or nails with in the end is all superficial. As Americans we are so concerned about our appearance I say more power to Maryson for being so confident in herself. I envy Maryson for her ability to not care what people think.
ReplyDeleteI think you made a really good point when you said that although the muslim girl is not being judged by her clothes or hair, she is being judged because of her veil. It sucks that people have to always stereotype about everything. Things should not be that way and it sucks really bad that it is. That is the norm in our culture today however. People constantly envying others and making fun of. It is really cool though how Muslim girls care so much about their bodies and respect themselves. That is not often shown now a days. It is interesting to learn about different culture and human behavior.
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