I’ve been quiet for some time on this matter, but as a revert with an entire battalion of relatives to explain Islam to, I can no longer stay silent. The political narratives we, as Muslims, are often thrown into weigh heavily on me. I fear being called to account on the Day of Judgment for not speaking up—for not clarifying what Islam truly is, or what this ongoing situation is really about.

I remained silent partly because I assumed those more knowledgeable in our Deen would rise to the occasion. But as the discourse on social media has escalated to disproportionate levels, with both non-Muslims and Muslims debating how to support our Iranian brothers and sisters, I feel compelled to add my voice. While the solidarity is heartwarming, I cannot stand by as people—whether non-Muslims or Muslims—force hijabis to remove their scarves or pressure non-hijabis to wear them. This is not the way.

The Hijab: A Choice, A Right, A Misunderstood Command

Sisters across the globe are crying out, “Hijab is my right, my choice!” And this outcry is not nonsensical. It is valid. But what is nonsensical is the assumption that when Muslim women say Hijab is a choice, they mean they simply don’t want to wear it. Why not also assume that their choice is to actually wear it? Why is the default assumption that choice equates to rejection?

What’s even more troubling is the chorus of non-Muslim bigots and, sadly, a majority of Muslim men—self-appointed “Halal police”—who declare, “Hijab is not a choice or a right; it is a command from Allah.” Let me be clear: you are not helping. This tone-deaf, hypocritical rhetoric does nothing to add to the beauty, logic, or wisdom of Hijab. Instead, it strips it of its depth and reduces it to a shallow, politicized symbol.

Hijab: Beyond the Scarf

Hijab has been reduced to a mere dress code—a headscarf and loose clothing for women. But this is a gross oversimplification. Hijab, in its entirety, is prescribed for both men and women. In fact, men are instructed first in the Quran to lower their gaze and guard their modesty. Yet, this is conveniently forgotten.

The same people weaponizing Hijab as a command exclusively for women are empowering bigots, uninformed liberals, and feminists who misunderstand its essence. Instead of uplifting our brothers and sisters in Iran—who are fighting for their right to maintain their relationship with Allah and practice their religion in peace—they are fueling division and misunderstanding.

The Double Standard

Muslim women’s rights and choices are as valid as those of Muslim men. Yet, while Muslim men are also commanded to observe Hijab in their own way, the vast majority do not follow it. Why? Because it is not put at the forefront. The focus is disproportionately placed on women, while men’s accountability is brushed aside. This double standard is not just unfair; it is un-Islamic.

Hijab Is Not Just a Dress Code

Let me say this again: Hijab is not just a dress code. It is a comprehensive concept encompassing modesty, dignity, and mindfulness in behavior, speech, and attire for both genders. Stop reducing it to a piece of cloth. Stop making it a battleground for political and cultural wars.

The Real Issue: Corruption and Oppression

If you must speak about the outrage in Iran, address the real issue: the corruption of religion in some Muslim countries. The oppression inflicted on people—men, women, and children alike—and even on non-Muslim populations who are being forced to conform to a distorted version of Islam.

The so-called “morality police” is a fabricated concept. It is not Islam, nor is it Islamic in practice. It is merely a tool of oppression, a means to control and suppress people under the guise of religion. This is not what Islam stands for.

A Plea for Understanding and Unity

To my fellow Muslims: let us not lose sight of the essence of our faith. Let us not allow the actions of a few to distort the beauty of Islam. To non-Muslims: seek to understand before passing judgment. Islam is a religion of peace, justice, and mercy. What you see in the media is often a far cry from its true teachings.

And to my Iranian brothers and sisters: your struggle is seen, your pain is felt, and your right to practice your faith in peace is undeniable. May Allah grant you strength, justice, and freedom from oppression.

Let us all strive to embody the true spirit of Hijab—modesty, dignity, and mindfulness—in our actions, our words, and our intentions. And let us stand together against oppression, wherever it may be.

Ameen.