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In a concerning development for community engagement in Quebec, two Muslim mothers have reported being barred from volunteering at their children’s elementary schools due to their choice to wear hijabs. Sabaah Khan, a long-time volunteer from Brossard, has dedicated over a decade to assisting with various school activities, from library management to vaccination days. Recently, she was informed by staff at the Riverside School Board that her hijab precludes her from participating as a volunteer.
A Personal Struggle
“I’m from here and my kids are from here,” Khan expressed, emphasising the disconnect between her contributions to the school community and the restrictions imposed upon her. The situation highlights a troubling interpretation of policies aimed at maintaining secularism in educational settings, which have left many parents questioning their role within schools. The provincial government introduced regulations in 2019 that prohibited teachers from wearing religious symbols, and in the previous year, extended this ban to all school personnel.
Khan shared her frustration regarding the ambiguity surrounding these rules, recounting a recent instance where she was questioned about attending her son’s basketball game. “They’re constantly looking while playing a game to make sure mom’s still sitting there,” she lamented, pointing out how such restrictions are affecting not only her but also her children.
The Voice of Another Mother
Asma Qureshi, another mother facing similar challenges, echoed Khan’s sentiments. Although she and her husband plan to provide food for their child’s graduation, she has been informed that she cannot serve it at the event due to her hijab. “We pay our taxes, we are law-abiding citizens, but we are still made to feel like second-class citizens just because of the way we look,” Qureshi stated, underlining the emotional toll these policies take on families.
Both mothers have expressed understanding towards the school staff who conveyed the restrictions, acknowledging that they are likely bound by the rules imposed by the education system.
Official Responses and Community Reaction
The Riverside School Board has pledged to approach the implementation of Bill 94—legislation that enforces the ban on religious symbols in schools—with professionalism and care. A statement from the office of Quebec’s education minister reiterated the stance that all parents are welcome to engage with their children’s schools, but only if they forgo religious attire. “Students must be able to learn in a neutral environment, free of religious pressure, and in keeping with Quebec’s values of gender equality,” the statement read.
Khan firmly believes that wearing her hijab is a personal choice, stating, “This is a part of my choice to dress modestly, and you can’t take away my right to my freedom of choice.” Both mothers are determined to continue speaking out against Bill 94, hoping their voices will contribute to a change in these policies.
Why it Matters
This situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining secularism in public institutions and respecting individual rights to religious expression. The experiences of Khan and Qureshi reflect broader societal tensions regarding cultural identity and inclusion within Quebec. As the province navigates its commitment to secular values, it must also consider the implications of its policies on community cohesion and the psychological well-being of its diverse population. The ongoing dialogue surrounding these issues is crucial for fostering an environment where all families feel valued and included in the educational journey of their children.
