American Culture and the Liberalization of Hijab

American Muslims often appeal to liberal tenets to defend themselves against bigotry, and while this has been a successful strategy, it has also come at the cost of commodifying their identity.

In her book, Inside the Greater Jihad, the American scholar of Islam, Amina Wadud, states: “If you think the difference between heaven and hell is 45 inches of material, boy will you be surprised.”¹

Wadud’s statement refers to the idea that hijab—or the Islamic headscarf—is not the sole marker of a woman’s personal piety. It also reflects an argument that…