By: Richard L. Smith
The Honorable Newark City Council President LaMonica McIver will introduce a resolution declaring February 1st World Hijab Day in the City of Newark.
President McIver said World Hijab Day, started by Nazma Khan, is a day for women of different cultures who do not normally wear the hijab to experience wearing one for the day.
Its purpose is to encourage religious tolerance, cultural understanding, and international solidarity.
The hijab, a traditional veil that covers a woman's hair and chest, has been very important to the history of Islam. It is meant to promote dignity and respect for women while maintaining modesty and respect for their religion.
According to Council President McIver, one of Newark's greatest strengths is our ability to embrace different faiths and allow members to express themselves freely.
Newark citizens come from a variety of backgrounds. They are united in affirming the inherent dignity of all people, the right of every person to be treated with respect and the right for all citizens to practice religion freely and without judgment.
President McIver said World Hijab Day encourages wearing the hijab as a proud display of religious faith and bonding.
It pushes forward the multicultural agenda that the United States of America constantly promotes, which will make us a stronger and more accepting nation.