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In a distressing turn of events, two Muslim mothers in Quebec have been informed they can no longer volunteer at their children’s elementary schools due to wearing hijabs. Sabaah Khan, a long-time resident of Brossard, has dedicated over a decade to supporting various school activities, from helping in the library to assisting during vaccination days. Her involvement has now come to an abrupt halt, she claims, because of the school board’s interpretation of recent regulations.
The Impact of Religious Symbolism Policies
Khan recounted her experience with Global News, stating that staff from the Riverside School Board recently told her that her hijab precluded her from volunteering. “Volunteers are needed because the teachers and the staff are very overworked, and they need a lot of help,” she emphasised. The abrupt prohibition left her feeling unwelcome in a community she has called home. “I’m from here and my kids are from here. And I’m being told that my free time is not good enough,” she lamented.
The origins of this policy date back to 2019, when the province prohibited teachers from wearing religious symbols. The regulations were extended last year to encompass all school personnel. This has led to considerable confusion regarding their application, with Khan noting that she was even questioned about her presence in a school gymnasium to watch her son play basketball. “They’re constantly looking while playing a game to make sure mom’s still sitting there,” she said. “It’s just not fair, and the damage it’s doing to the kids is very difficult.”
A Shared Experience of Discrimination
Asma Qureshi, another mother affected by this policy, shared her frustrations about her inability to serve food at her child’s upcoming graduation event, despite her 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 stated. Both mothers express understanding towards the school staff, suggesting they are merely following orders rather than making the decisions themselves.
In a statement regarding these incidents, the Riverside School Board assured that it would handle the implementation of Bill 94 with professionalism and care. They aim to ensure that staff members are adequately informed and supported regarding the new guidelines. However, the office of Quebec’s education minister has reiterated that all parents are welcome to be involved in their children’s education, provided they do not wear 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 asserted.
The Right to Choose
Khan firmly believes that wearing a hijab is a personal choice that reflects 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 declared. Both women are determined to continue voicing their concerns over Bill 94, hoping that their advocacy will lead to meaningful changes in policy.
Why it Matters
The exclusion of parents from school activities based on their religious attire raises significant questions about inclusivity and equality in Quebec society. For many, the ability to participate in their children’s education is a fundamental right that transcends religious beliefs. This situation not only impacts the affected mothers but also sends a troubling message to children about acceptance and diversity. As these women continue to advocate for their rights, their story highlights the ongoing struggle for religious freedoms in a province grappling with its identity and values.
