**
Two Muslim mothers in Quebec have voiced their distress after being informed that they can no longer volunteer at their children’s elementary schools due to their choice to wear hijabs. Sabaah Khan from Brossard, who has dedicated over ten years to supporting school activities, claims that the Riverside School Board recently barred her from volunteering, citing the province’s regulations on religious attire. Khan, echoing the sentiments of fellow mother Asma Qureshi, expressed her frustration at feeling unwelcome in her own community.
A Long History of Community Engagement
For over a decade, Sabaah Khan has been an integral part of her children’s schools, contributing her time to activities ranging from assisting in the library to helping out during vaccination days. “Volunteers are essential because the teachers and staff are extremely overworked, and they require additional support,” Khan told Global News. This dedication, however, has been met with resistance under the current provincial policies.
Khan highlighted the absurdity of the situation, stating, “I’m from here and my kids are from here. And I’m being told that my free time is not good enough.” This statement underscores her disappointment and confusion regarding the application of Bill 94, which prohibits teachers and school personnel from wearing religious symbols on the job.
Confusion and Exclusion in Schools
The implementation of this law has led to ambiguity about its enforcement. Khan recounted an incident where she was questioned about her ability to enter a school gymnasium to watch her son participate in a basketball game. “They’re constantly looking while playing a game to make sure mom’s still sitting there,” she explained. “It’s just not fair, and the damage it’s doing to the kids is very difficult.” The emotional toll on children witnessing their parents’ exclusion cannot be understated.
Asma Qureshi, another mother facing similar challenges, expressed her dismay over being unable to serve food at her child’s graduation, despite her and her husband’s willingness to contribute. “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,” she lamented. Both mothers have been careful to clarify that they do not hold the schools or staff accountable, believing that those who delivered the news were acting under compulsion.
Official Responses and the Path Forward
In response to the situation, the Riverside School Board assured the public that they will implement Bill 94 with professionalism and sensitivity, ensuring that staff are adequately informed and supported. Meanwhile, Quebec’s education minister’s office stated that all parents are welcome to engage with their children’s schools, provided they do not display religious symbols. “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 emphasised.
For Khan, wearing a hijab is a personal choice that represents her commitment to modesty. “This is a part of my choice to dress modestly and you can’t take away my right to my freedom of choice,” she asserted. Both women are determined to continue voicing their opposition to Bill 94, hoping to foster change in the current climate.
Why it Matters
The stories of Sabaah Khan and Asma Qureshi highlight a critical intersection of law, personal freedom, and community involvement. The implications of Bill 94 extend beyond individual grievances; they raise profound questions about inclusivity and diversity within Quebec’s educational framework. As these mothers bravely advocate for their rights, their plight serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance in a multicultural society. The conversation surrounding religious symbols and community engagement is far from over, and it is imperative that these voices continue to be heard.
