When she walked into school, her classmates did not understand why she was wearing a veil. Junior Nada Atieh was not hoping to catch attention but was simply making a statement of faith.

“I knew I was Muslim, but I actually wanted to practice my faith. At first I was nervous because I didn’t know what people would think or say,” Atieh said. “After the first day of school I felt comfortable and confident.”

Atieh said her worry wasn’t necessary. Her classmates asked questions, but they weren’t rude about her deision.

Atieh said wearing the Hijab represents modesty, dignity and integrity. Muslim women wear the Hijab to present a sense of respect and freedom for themselves. The Hijab helps Islam women to express beauty within themselves, instead of what most of society views women as.

“My mom influenced me to start wearing the Hijab because she always told me that self respect is more important than outer beauty,” Atieh said. “I also was encouraged when I watched a YouTube video produced by a faithful Muslim follower, Joshua Evans. He talked about what the Hijab really meant and spoke about the beauty of a Muslim woman.”

Once a woman decides to accept the Hijab, it is understood that they should always wear it. It is better for someone to never put it on than to put it on and take it off later. Although it is a woman’s choice to wear the Hijab, it is not highly looked upon to take it off later. The Hijab should be worn at all times, especially in public. A Muslim woman can take it off in front of family but not male cousins.

“In Islam, a woman’s beauty is so honored and respected that we should seal it,” Atieh said. “We don’t show it off to the world.”