US Muslim Civil Rights Group Celebrates ‘World Hijab Day’ Recognition in New York

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has expressed its approval of a new resolution passed by the New York State Senate, which officially designates February 1, 2025, as World Hijab Day, Anadolu Agency reported. Introduced by Senator Roxanne Persaud, the resolution aims to promote religious tolerance, cultural understanding, and international solidarity.

In a statement, CAIR highlighted that World Hijab Day, now in its 12th year, serves as a platform to foster understanding, challenge stereotypes, and celebrate the empowerment of women who choose to wear the hijab. Afaf Nasher, Executive Director of CAIR-NY, noted that the resolution exemplifies New York’s commitment to celebrating cultural and religious diversity. She emphasized that World Hijab Day presents a vital opportunity to elevate the voices of hijab-wearing women and address the prejudice and discrimination they often encounter.

Nasher expressed gratitude to Senator Roxanne J. Persaud for her advocacy and support of the resolution. Founded in 2013 by Nazma Khan, World Hijab Day aims to encourage religious tolerance and cultural understanding. Since its inception, it has been observed globally, allowing women from various backgrounds to experience wearing a hijab for a day.