Thumb's up to cross but down to niqab: Survey

Rasa - Canadian province of Saskatchewan respondents in a recent survey were more likely to support people wearing a nun's habit, a crucifix or the Star of David than the niqab, hijab or a kirpan, Leader-Post reported.

News ID: 1690

Date: 27 November 2014 - 12:46

RNA - The results don't fit with Labiba Aboguddah's experience as a young Muslim woman born and raised in Regina. "No one ever was rude or made fun of me. I never felt like I don't fit in," said the University of Regina student and a member of the Muslim Students Association.

Aboguddah, of Syrian heritage, wears a hijab or head scarf as part of her Islamic faith and often an abaya, a black, dress-like garment.

As with a nun's choice to cover up, Aboguddah noted, "everyone has their definition of modesty."

A recent national poll delving into everything from homegrown terrorism and radicalization to religious tolerance found 30 per cent of Saskatchewan respondents opposed wearing of the hijab in public - on par with the results across the country. There was even more opposition to the niqab - which covers the face exposing only a woman's eyes - at 73 per cent.

University of Saskatchewan adjunct professor Ron Wheeler, who teaches about terrorism and international politics, believes it may reflect a distrust of certain religious groups, at a time when Muslim extremists dominate the news.

"It's not surprising to me, if you have Muslims that are covered, there's something more frightening about that to ordinary Canadians, even though that's normal, typical, part of their religion. For those who don't understand that very well or are fearful of Muslims, it's not surprising - disappointing - but not surprising," he added.

For her part, Aboguddah has found acceptance, not animosity.

"They make me feel like this is my country and I belong here. And I'm just like anyone else," she said, noting her friend wears a niqab and shares her positive experience.

The survey was conducted by The Vancouver Province with the Race Relations Council of Canada, The Laurier Institution, Simon Fraser University and the Angus Reid Institute. Some 1,600 Canadians - 95 from Saskatchewan - responded to the poll between Nov. 10 to 12.

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