Muslim Women Describe Hijab as Empowering Amid Public Misconceptions

Muslim Women Describe Hijab as Empowering Amid Public Misconceptions
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Muslim women attending the UK’s largest Islamic convention have described wearing the hijab as an empowering and personal choice, countering public perceptions revealed in a recent national survey, The Independent reported.

The YouGov poll commissioned by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, conducted earlier this month among 2,130 UK adults, coincided with the annual Jalsa Salana convention, which brought together over 20,000 Muslim women.

Participants at the event shared their experiences, stating that the hijab offers spiritual grounding and independence in a society often focused on physical appearance. Many emphasized that it allows them to express their faith freely and choose how they present themselves to the world. For them, the hijab is not a symbol of oppression but a conscious expression of identity and belief.

The convention also served as a platform to challenge broader societal attitudes toward Islam. The survey revealed that 53% of Britons believe Islam is incompatible with British values, and 41% expressed negative views toward Muslim immigrants — significantly higher than for other religious groups.

Attendees at the event, which also featured exhibitions, speeches, and cultural activities, highlighted the compatibility between British and Islamic values, rejecting the notion that faith and national identity are at odds. Organizers raised both the Union Jack and the Islamic flag to symbolize unity.

Some participants criticized media portrayals for reinforcing stereotypes and contributing to public misunderstanding of Muslim women. They called for greater engagement with Muslim voices to build a more accurate and inclusive narrative.

Overall, the gathering aimed to foster dialogue, promote understanding, and affirm the right of Muslim women to define their own choices — including wearing the hijab.