SURVEY RESULTS: WHAT NON-MUSLIMS SAY ABOUT THE NIQAB

One reason that the Niqab is a hugely misunderstood concept in Islam is because we have not explained it to Non-Muslims correctly. So, we thought of starting a survey collecting the opinions of Non-Muslims regarding what they think of the Niqab and answering the misconceptions, so that hopefully, more people will come to realize that we wear the Niqab for God, not for man, we wear it out of choice, not compulsion and that we find genuine peace and liberation in doing so. Trust me on this, because the moment I started wearing the Niqab, was the moment I found real peace.

So, the survey basically consisted of 3 questions.

1- Niqab is 

• A sign of oppression for women
• A sign of liberation and modesty
• A choice of Muslim women that must be respected
• Other

2- Why do you think so (previous question)
3- What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab.

We opted for a short survey because we obviously wouldn't be able to publish the responses of everyone who participated in it. However, we have compiled all the responses besides one rather insulting comment that is too disrespectful to post. Apologies for that!

We started the survey exactly a week ago, so not for the results of the survey... Well, it was better than we expected! :D (This is the poll results of the opinions of only Non-Muslims)

A very huge Thank You for everyone who participated in the survey. Thank you so much for your time and answers!

So now to the answers on the survey:

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is:

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because oppression to women are plastic surgeries, eating disorders and a sexualized body that degrades her and transforms her into an object. No one complains against the degrading way in which women appear in advertising but they do when they choose to cover themselves.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

There are mechanical engineering women that wear niqab. Designers. Doctors. And is their own choice. To work as a professional is a good thing. Makes people focus on their minds and thoughts, and their body and their sexuality belongs to them and under their control. I was born in occident, my whole family is occidental and I feel a tremendous peace when I read muslims thoughts, the role of women, and some verses. It is strange what it is happening to me, but despite I´ve never been outside occident I feel a bond, a call...

- Clara, Interior designer

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a:

Sign of oppression for women

Why do you think so (previous question)

It's unfounded in Islam itself as it's banned in Hajj. Women must show their face in Hajj. So it's not about religion but about male domination.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

Since it's not a religious obligation but a "preference" to some. It should be banned as it's a security risk. Any wanted criminals could wear niqabs and move around freely

-Zico

Our Response: Hajj is the only instance where a woman does not need to wear the Niqab. Besides that, it is very much part of Islam because it was the dress code of the best women- the Ummahatul Mu'mineen also known as the Mother of the Believers. As for the issue of posing a security risk, criminals could move around freely with a medical mask or a helmet too. Doesn't mean that it should be banned. And, for identification purposes for security reasons, it is permissible for a Niqabi to reveal her face.

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a:

Sign of oppression for women

Why do you think so (previous question)

It is an outdated religious view that needs updating to modern society views. I don't recall Adam and Eve (eve wearing the niqaab) it objectifies you to your husband and has no place in non Muslim countries where it is deemed rude to not show your face or look into the eyes of people your talking too. Furthermore, in these current times it is scary for non believers to be around and as it is a personal choice for Muslim women, I think they should consider the rest of society in non Muslim countries.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

I think they are completely the woman's choice but as mentioned above, I believe it's a dangerous tradition that makes many feel separated from the muslim community and it doesn't necessarily affect the Muslim faith to not wear it seen as it is by choice.

- Anonymous

Our Response: Observing religious freedom should be permitted because it is a person's choice and part of who they are. Asking them to give up their religious duties is like asking them to give up who they are. As for the matter of it objectifying you to your husband, Muslim women prefer to reveal their beauty only to the men that matter in their life, and like you said, it's completely a woman's choice, and she deserves the liberty and freedom to do what she wants, regardless of whether people like it or not. Our freedom of choice cannot be compromised just because a select few oppose it.

__________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a:

Sign of oppression for women

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because it is depraving for women in western society who have fought for their right during the course of history to see other women subjugated for the sake of a dogma whether it is forced upon them or not

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

It shouldn't make a difference in rights whether a woman is wearing the Niqab or not, a woman should have the same rights in any case. However in Muslim majority countries it is an ongoing fight for women rights ( Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, etc...) and whether the country is an Islamic state or not should not matter for non-muslims and the law should not be applied to them ( except for the state laws ).

- Armand, Post Producer

Our Response: Each and every woman is an individual who has different opinions and rights. It is true that women have fought for their rights, and Islam does not deprive us of any rights. In fact, being a woman of Islam and being blessed to observe modesty, is a right in itself, because it is what a woman chooses to do. Niqab is not an act of subjugation and neither is it forced upon us. We wear it because we refuse to be subjugated by men and fashion. And we cannot really see how wearing an extra piece of material immediately classes us as 'subjugated' or means that we have been deprived of rights. Ask any Niqabi whether this bit of cloth has hindered her in any way, and the answer will definitely be 'No'. All women deserve to enjoy the same rights, and wearing the Niqab doesn't make any difference in that, just like you have mentioned. In any case, there is no compulsion in Islam. If a woman decides to wear the Niqab she is completely free to do so and if she doesn't want to, no one can force it upon her.

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is:

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

The Qu'ran, I think, states that woman should dress modestly but are not forced to wear it.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

In Islamic countries they have rights however in the west they are deemed fundamental and therefore outcast.

- Will Catterall, Doctor

Our Response: Exactly. The Quran stresses that a woman should dress modesty and it is a command, but as the Quran says, "There is no compulsion in religion". The truth and falsehood are clearly distinguished for us in the Quran, but beyond that, there is no compulsion. As for Niqabis being deemed as fundamental and outcast in the west, isn't it unfair to label a woman as such simply for choosing to observe a higher level of modesty?

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a:

Emphasising your piety against 'decadence' of Western dress codes.

Why do you think so (previous question)

We've heard of Muslim men being unable to control their sexual urges. And we think that dressing modestly is a form of apology to those men.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

I think it should be worn at intervals, perhaps during fasting. But with some concern for non-Muslim women, especially young & vulnerable.

- Anonymous 

Our Response: Wearing the Hijab and Niqab because men cannot control their sexual urges is a huge, huge misconception. First up, we do NOT wear the Niqab because men have forced it upon us or because it's an apology for men who can't control their desires. The assumption that Muslim men can't control their sexual desires is actually baseless. If possible, could be please give us a statistical report or the like which says that Muslim men are unable to control their sexual urges. On the contrary, here's what we found: 

We wear the Niqab because it a form of worship to Allah and it's a sign of our submission to God. Not man. And also, because we choose to show our beauty only to those men that matter in our lives and not to any random man. 

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a
Sign of oppression for women

Why do you think so (previous question)
Because I think of myself, that I wouldn´t like to hide my face in sign of shame

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?
I believe that some women like to wear the Niqab, but I think some don't and if they could would take it off

- Linda Gonçalves, student

Our Response: We don't wear the Niqab to hide our face in shame. We wear it out of modesty, because in Islam, modesty is a part of faith. Doesn't exposing your body show that you have no shame? Modesty isn't something shameful. In fact, it's nudity that ought to be.

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

I think this because it is morally and legally correct to respect a Muslim woman's choice to wear the niqab if she chooses. 

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

As already stated above ... It is morally and legally correct to respect a Muslim woman's choice to wear the niqab if she chooses. Women in Canada have the rights and freedoms of every Canadian and actual resident in Canada over their own bodies, to religious expression, and so on. This of course includes her choice of attire for religious reasons. Where necessary for verification of identity, such as citizenship ceremonies, driver's licences, passports, etc., a Muslim women's human and Charter rights include being accommodated to reveal her face only to another woman in a private area for this purpose, and wear the niqab during the ceremony in public. Furthermore, this is perfectly acceptable, causes no one any hardship, and easily falls within "Canadian values" (no matter what Jason Kenney thought/thinks). It continues to be an educational process to help Canadians understand that wearing a hijab/niqab/burka does not automatically equal oppression. No doubt in some cases that may perhaps be true; however, it is a false conclusion in a vast majority of cases (at least here in Canada in my experience).

- Valerie Nicholls, Policy Researcher/Writer

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a
Choice for Muslim women

Why do you think so (previous question)
If they want to wear a niqab then they should, if they don't want to then they don't have to. Shouldn't be forced. Should be up to the individual.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?
Hmmm I don't know. I think those wearing a niqab have the same rights as those that don't wear it. In the country I stay in, I haven't noticed any discrimination of those wearing the niqab.

- Anonymous

_________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a
A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

People have the right to wear what they like and the government doesn't get the right to police anyone especially women's clothing.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

I am 100% for it.

- Jocelyn, Student

__________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Just as women are allowed to walk around wearing few clothes, I don't see why having women covering up should be looked down upon either. Double standards.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?Women have many rights, and they have the right to cover up if they want to. No force involved they are able to do so as they wish, women have that choice.

- Anonymous

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a

Is a garment to conceal the beauty of a person

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because why else would somebody be covered from head to toe. If a woman was as dedicated to Islam as she makes out, these garments wouldn't be needed. Or is it because the men have no control over themselves?

Q3: What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

I don't think people should cover their face in public. Whether it's a niqab or a balaclava covering your face is intimidating.

-KB, Office worker

Our Response: One of the reasons we wear the Niqab is to conceal our beauty and because women in Islam are precious and held in high esteem, we prefer to reveal out beauty only for those men that matter on our life and not for any random man. 

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Clearly, modesty is not offensive.

- Anonymous

________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a

A sign of liberation and modesty

Why do you think so (previous question)

Living in a world where women are judged based on their looks, I believe niqab liberates women and says to people you know what I can bring more to the table than just my beauty.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

I think the rights of women to wear the niqab should be respected and everyone should have the right and freedom to practice their religion and choose to wear whatever they want as long as it's not causing any harm.

- Naimo, Student

____________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because Freedom is important!

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

All humans should have equal rights, so one wearing or not wearing the Niqab does not matter!

- Balwinder, Chef

__________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a
Veil to the unseen. Prevention of the influence to men 

Why do you think so (previous question)
I know so. Given the styles for varying ages. It's the unseen that project lust to the human flesh

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?
Self loyalty. Did women name the rights

- Glenn Mearns 
Our Response: Unfortunately, this comment was unclear to us so we are unable to respond.

__________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a
A sign of liberation and modesty 

Why do you think so (previous question)
Looking back at the situation of women back then during the Roman empire

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?
There's no difference in rights, look at the women of Turkey

- Anonymous

__________________________________________________________________

We also received some responses from Muslims. Originally, this survey was targeted towards non-Muslims, and the poll results mentioned at the start of the survey are the opinions of only non-Muslims, so it's all totally fair. The responses from Muslims are great too, so here they are:

Niqab is:

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because it's not obligatory therefore the person wearing it, has chose to.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

Should have equal rights to people not wearing the niqab

-Noor, Student

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

It has been obligated for us women to cover ourselves I don't understand how a female could want to stop another from striving to please the Creator. Why do I see so many mothers saying we should ban it in England? It's like they prefer their daughters to be showing skin and going to clubs having boyfriends etc. I am not judging I just don't see that as a respectable way of life. In the niqab, however, sisters can protect their chastity and guard their selves from the evil distractions we are exposed to in this life and especially now. It is totally the opposite of being oppressed - to cover yourself for your Creator :)

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

They should have their rights always upheld and respected and their rights should be made clear to them so they can stand up for themselves in a court of law if needed. I think some people get surprised when they realize a woman in Niqab is so honourable, with niqab you have a barrier between self and dunya (this world) but even some who say they love God still say we should ban niqab in UK because "it could be anyone". Don't claim to love God if you can't love your own sisters (without having to see their faces) for His sake. If people do not understand why a woman would choose to cover herself in this life then seriously they need to broaden their perspective on this.

- Anonymous

__________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a

A sign of liberation and modesty

Why do you think so (previous question)

Women don't need to be gawked at by strangers

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

It is their choice. Why would somebody have a problem not seeing a face of somebody just because they are muslim. They must think Islam is the tight religion but they're just scared.

- Abdirahman Mohamad, Student

__________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a

A sign of liberation and modesty

Why do you think so (previous question)

It gives them a choice to liberate themselves from the clutches of modern civilization, in which women are being and oppressed and has no dignity whatsoever. More over they don't even comprehend this. Their bodies are treated as objects for pleasure and amusement, abused sexually, have to have multiple sex partners to choose a husband. I wonder if it's their liberty or they are being deceived into free prostitution by the male part of the society. Much more.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

Believe me, they are in control of their lives, they know their rights better than anyone else. You have to have a sincere look in the lives of these sisters, they practice more rights than your so called liberated women. They enjoy more rights, believe me.

- Syed Muhammad Ali Raza Mashhadi

__________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because Allah said there is no compulsion in religion so if a believing woman puts the niqab on I believe it's her understanding of the deen

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

It should not be tampered with

- Aisha Yusuff, Student

__________________________________________________________________

Because some answers were anonymous, we are not totally sure if they are Muslim or not. Nevertheless, we've tried to be as accurate as we can with the poll results. This is the results of the entire survey, with the opinions of both Muslims and non-Muslims:

If anyone would still like to give their opinions, feel free to do so by leaving a comment below and if you would like to ask any questions about the Niqab, Hijab or just about anything about Islam, email us on niqablovers@gmail.com and we'll be glad to answer you.

Once again, thank you so much for everyone who participated in the survey. We really appreciate it! And everyone who says that the Niqab is a choice that must be respected, so much respect for you all! Thank you!