A French teacher discusses the challenges of balancing her career and her religion. Topics include experiences as a new immigrant in Canada, wearing the hijab after high school, reflections on fear and discrimination, challenging misconceptions about Islam, personal growth and identity, struggling with support for the hijab, and the importance of choosing Allah over material temptations.
Discrimination against hijabis in Quebec is unfortunately a normal part of their lives.
Bill 21 in Quebec prohibits religious symbols, including the hijab, in public educational settings, leading to discrimination and injustice.
Support from Quebecois people who stand against the discriminatory nature of Bill 21 gives hope to Muslim women facing challenges in Quebec.
Deep dives
Experiencing Discrimination and Staring
Rita shares her experiences of discrimination and stares she faced as a hijabi in Quebec. She recounts instances of people mumbling, shouting, and even spitting at her, and reflects on how these experiences made her realize that discrimination was unfortunately a normal part of her life as a Muslim woman wearing the hijab. Despite the stares and harassment, Rita remained firm in her conviction and relied on the teachings of her mother to stay strong and not let fear dictate her actions.
Facing a Restrictive Law
Rita applies for a substitute teaching position in Quebec, but is met with the reality of Bill 21, which prohibits religious symbols, including the Muslim hijab, in public educational settings. The interviewer informs Rita that because she wears the hijab, she cannot be considered for the position. Rita contemplates alternative paths and even suggests wearing a turban instead, but ultimately decides to stand firm in her faith and not compromise her identity. She reflects on the injustice of the law and the impact it has on individuals like herself who face discrimination due to their religious beliefs.
The Support of Quebecois People
Rita attends a protest after the passing of Bill 21 and realizes that there is support from Quebecois people who are also upset with the law. She recalls encountering Sikh men, as well as Quebecois individuals, who stand against the discriminatory nature of the law. This realization gives her hope amid the challenges she faces as a hijabi in Quebec.
A Moment of Optimism and Moving Forward
Despite the setback, Rita remains optimistic and decides to continue pursuing her studies in teaching. She embraces the future, knowing that she will finish her program and see where her career takes her. She remains determined to face the obstacles and challenges head-on, while staying true to her faith and identity as a Muslim woman.
Realizing the Importance of Support
The speaker reflects on the disappointment and loneliness she felt when few people, including fellow Muslim teachers, showed up to support her during a protest against a law banning hijabs in schools. This experience led her to question if fighting for the hijab was worth it, but also made her realize the importance of relying solely on Allah. She understood that wearing the hijab is an act of obedience and a means of earning reward from Allah. The speaker's disappointment turned into a stronger connection with her faith and a desire to become a better Muslim.
Finding Guidance through the Quran
Feeling lost and unable to ask Allah for guidance during a critical moment, the speaker turned to praying Salatul Istikhara. This heartfelt prayer led her to make important decisions, including enrolling in an 18-month program to learn about the Quran, called Taleem al-Quran. Through this program, the speaker delved deep into the study of the Quran, experienced a transformation in her outlook on life, and recognized the need to prioritize her relationship with Allah above all else. Learning about Allah's subtly kind nature reinforced her belief that Allah is always there, guiding and supporting her in her journey.
Reda Khan is a French teacher who finds herself struggling when the paths of her career and her religion are torn apart.
This episode was brought to you by Beautiful Light Studios. Recorded at MH Studios Toronto
Executive Producer: Muna Scekomar
Recording Engineer: Jonathan Lillo
Podcast intern: Nima Harun
Graphic Designer: Wasima Farah
Project manager: Yasmin Mohamud
Marketing Manager: Sawsan Abdillahi
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