February marks pivotal periods in African-American culture and the Islamic faith. Black History Month commences as does World Hijab Day.
World Hijab day was started by Nazma Khan in 2013. Khan; a Bronx, New York native had experienced her fair share of discrimination. She recalls constantly being harassed, bullied, and even being spit on. She recounts, “every day, I would face different challenges just walking on the street,” she told Al Jazeera.
“I was chased, spit on, surrounded by men, called a terrorist, Osama bin Laden, etc.” As she garnered support online from other hijabi’s – women who chose to cover their heads with scarves in observance of the Muslim faith – Khan decided to put her money where her mouth is and founded World Hijab Day.
WHD is not only a spotlight on the right for women of all races, religions, and nationalities to adorn their heads but also a day where monetary contributions can be made to various charities geared towards Islamic centered institutions such as Corporate Anti-Islamophobia Program (CAIP) and the Muslimah Mentoring Program (MMP).
The month of February is a period full of rich history and progression. As we learn of the atrocities and injustices that have occurred and continue to thrive in society we are introduced to public figures who are becoming the bricklayers to a better tomorrow. Here are some key Black personalities who represent both the black culture and the Islamic faith.
