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Home»Real Talk: Series n»The Western Illusion: Why Modern Movements Fail to Empower Women»5. Hijab Is Oppression? Let’s Unveil That
The Western Illusion: Why Modern Movements Fail to Empower Women

5. Hijab Is Oppression? Let’s Unveil That

Ani S.A.By Ani S.A.July 5, 2025312 ViewsNo Comments3 Mins Read
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This entry is part 1 of 1 in the series 5. Hijab vs. Freedom of Expression

5. Hijab vs. Freedom of Expression
  • 5. Hijab Is Oppression? Let’s Unveil That

Part 5 of the Unfiltered Series: What Islam Says About the West’s Most Controversial Women’s Issues

“If She’s Covered, She Must Be Oppressed”

It’s the modern West’s favorite paradox: “Women should wear whatever they want… except a hijab.”

A woman can wear bikinis in Times Square and be hailed as bold, but a woman in a headscarf on a Paris street? Suspicious. Possibly brainwashed. Maybe even in need of liberation.

But here’s the truth bomb: Modesty isn’t a prison. It’s a choice.
A deeply spiritual, countercultural, and proudly conscious one.


Hijab in Islam: A Command, Not a Costume

The hijab is not just about cloth. It’s about consciousness—of Allah, of dignity, of identity. It’s a symbol that a woman belongs to herself and her Creator, not to societal beauty standards or male gaze metrics.

“O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (jalābīb) over themselves. That is more likely that they will be recognized and not harassed…”
(Surah Al-Ahzab 33:59)

Note: Scholars differ on exact styles, but agree that modesty (ḥayā’) is essential in public spaces for both men and women.


The Irony of “Freeing” Women by Undressing Them

The feminist narrative often says: “Hijab is imposed. Modesty is outdated.”
But let’s ask:

Why is a woman’s liberation always linked to how much skin she shows?

Modern fashion often objectifies women under the banner of “choice.” But real choice should mean the right to say:

“I don’t need to bare myself to be visible. I don’t need validation through exposure.”

Islam flips the script. It says: “Covering up is a form of strength, not shame.”


Western Feminism vs. Islamic Modesty

Western View on DressIslamic View on Hijab
Empowerment = ExposureEmpowerment = Autonomy from objectification
Modesty is repressiveModesty is liberating
Body is a canvas for othersBody is a trust (amānah) from Allah
Fashion trends dictate valueTaqwa dictates worth

Hijab and Identity: More Than a Headscarf

Women who wear hijab often say:

  • “It reminds me who I am before Allah.”
  • “It frees me from society’s expectations.”
  • “It’s the most rebellious thing I can do in a world obsessed with image.”

And yet, many face:

  • Workplace discrimination
  • Airport profiling
  • Media bias

Let’s be real—the oppression isn’t from hijab. It’s from those who fear what it represents: independence from cultural programming.


But Is It Always a Choice?

In some contexts, yes—the hijab can be forced.
That’s not Islam. That’s misuse of religion.

True hijab comes from:

  • Understanding the wisdom behind it
  • Appreciating its role in spiritual protection
  • Choosing it with love, not compulsion

And just like praying or fasting—it’s a journey. Not everyone is on the same page. And that’s okay.


Conclusion: Don’t Unveil Me to Liberate Me

Hijab isn’t a trend or a cultural relic. It’s an act of worship. A reminder. A barrier. A shield.

So to those who think the hijabi woman is oppressed, think again.
She’s not silent. She’s not weak. She’s resisting an entire global machine that profits from her exposure.

And she does it with grace, dignity, and yes—lipstick, if she wants to.

religious freedom Hijab modesty in Islam Islamic feminism taqwa modesty vs exposure hijab oppression women in islam hijabi identity western feminism
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Previous Article4. Feminism and “Having It All”: An Islamic Mirror
Next Article 6. Swipe Left on Morals? Islam vs. Hookup Culture
Ani S.A.
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I’m Ani S.A., a content creator with a passion for exploring the diverse experiences of Muslim women. At Rethinking Islam - The Moden Perspective, I cover a wide range of topics, from investing to travel, fashion, and women’s empowerment. I aim to bring clarity and fresh perspectives to everything I write, whether I’m discussing the latest trends in hijab fashion or reviewing Islam friendly travels. My goal is always to offer authentic, culturally sensitive insights that resonate with Muslim women worldwide.

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