Preview - Wearing Hijab: Uncovering the Myths of Islam in the United States

Wearing Hijab: Uncovering the Myths of Islam in the United States

5:30

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Wearing Hijab: Uncovering the Myths of Islam in the United States (34:00)

Item# 33031
©2003

In America, there are many misconceptions about Islam, particularly concerning its distinctive veil known as hijab. But how do Muslim women in this country who wear hijab feel about it? In this program, six Muslim women from six different ethnic backgrounds discuss their relation to this traditional garment, as well as what it means in a more general way to practice Islam in the U.S. Interviews with spouses and family members also shed light on the spiritual and cultural dimensions of this practice. A viewable/printable instructor’s guide is available online. (34 minutes)

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Segments in this Video - (7)

1. Diversity Within Muslim Communities in America (04:31)

Six American women of different ethnic backgrounds and family origins discuss their practice of the Muslim religion. Muslims practice unity despite individual diversity at the Colorado Islamic Center.

2. Common Misconceptions About Muslim Women (03:25)

Common misconceptions about Muslim women are that they are uneducated, oppressed, fanatic, unwilling to assimilate, anti-American, and unable to speak English. Islam requires modesty of both men and women, which is why women wear hijab.

3. Hijab: A Personal Decision: (03:21)

Different women discuss their personal experiences with choosing to wear or not wear hijab. All Muslim women wear hijab on Fridays when they go to the Mosque to pray, but less than half wear hijab on a daily basis.

4. Wearing Hijab: Subservience or Liberation? (03:03)

In contradiction to the myth that wearing hijab translates to subservience, many Muslim women feel that wearing hijab liberates them from a culture which sexualizes women.

5. American Women Who Convert to Islam (04:57)

Two American women discuss their decision to convert to Islam, their acceptance into the Muslim community, and the reactions of their families and friends.

6. Arranged Marriages: A Muslim Tradition (06:37)

Patterns of meeting men vary with specific cultural or national practices, as well as Islamic practices. Muslims may find marital partners through their community or through arranged methods, but all arranged marriages involve mutual consent.

7. Women Practicing Islam in America (05:30)

Available for Free Preview

Islam does not forbid Muslim women to pursue higher education or a career. Despite common American misconceptions about Islam, many Muslim women embrace America as a place where they are free to practice Islam as they choose.