What do you envision?
When you hear the word "Muslim"
What do you imagine?
When you hear of muslim women
Do you think of oppression?
I am a Muslim
I am a Woman
I am neither deprived or opressed
And am not seeking any form of liberation
From any region especially the West
This is a particular messege
For the entire world to hear
A testimonial about the Hijab
That I want to make clear
It is not a sign of deprivation
Nor is it a type of trap
Instead it's an empowerment
An ability to escape
Those standards set for my gender
To show off our body shape
And curvy figure
Occupied with trying to please everyone
Obligation to keep up with the latest fashion
Able to avoid competition in this society
of clothing, hair, make-up, and jewelry
Am capable to break away from
the stereotype set for women
When I cover
then they are able to hear
My personal opinions
and brave voice
My valid options
and personal choice
When I cover
I express my individuality
While maintaining my dignity
Preserving and adorning my body
Protection from the sun rays
and those immoral eyes
When I cover
I am always reminded that a stranger
is attracted by my tranqulity
and bold personality
instead of my sexualiy
and physical beauty
Rather turn heads
for more clothes worn
then the lack of it instead
for others to adorn
Hope you now understand
We are already liberated and free
More than any can comprehend
So have no sympathy
I am a Muslim
I am a Woman
I live a life that is virtouse and pure
I form an intellectual mind
And a strong character
So remember next time
You hear Islam, Muslim, and Muslim Women
Think of knowledge, chaste, and admiration
« return.