In a troubling 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 and Asma Qureshi, both active participants in school activities, have expressed their dismay at this decision, which they believe undermines their contributions to their children’s education and well-being.
A Decade of Dedication
Sabaah Khan, a Brossard resident, has devoted over ten years to volunteering at local schools, assisting with various activities from library duties to vaccination days. “Volunteers are essential because staff are overwhelmed and require additional support,” she stated during an interview. However, Khan claims that the Riverside School Board recently informed her that her hijab prohibited her from continuing her volunteer work.
“I’m from here, and my children are from here,” Khan lamented. “It feels as though my willingness to help is being disregarded simply because of my appearance.”
Confusion and Discontent
The implementation of Bill 94, which prohibits teachers and school personnel from wearing religious symbols, has sparked confusion and concern among parents. While the law was enacted in 2019, its application has left many questioning its boundaries. Khan recounted an incident where staff questioned her presence in the gymnasium while her son played basketball, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the issue.
“They’re constantly looking back to see if I’m still there,” Khan noted. “It’s not just unfair to me; it’s harmful to the children involved.”
Asma Qureshi, another mother affected by this policy, echoed Khan’s sentiments. Despite offering to provide food for her child’s graduation event, she was informed that she could not serve it due to her hijab. “We pay taxes, abide by the law, and yet we’re made to feel like second-class citizens simply for how we look,” she stated, conveying her frustration.
Institutional Responses
Both women emphasised that they do not blame the individual schools or their staff, who they believe are simply following orders. The Riverside School Board has stated its commitment to implementing Bill 94 with care and professionalism, ensuring that staff are adequately informed and supported during this transition.
In a statement, Quebec’s education minister reiterated that all parents wishing to engage with their children’s education are welcome, provided they do not wear religious symbols. “Students must learn in a neutral environment, free from religious pressure, aligned with Quebec’s values of gender equality,” the statement read.
Khan firmly believes that wearing a hijab is a personal choice that reflects her commitment to modesty. “This is part of my freedom of choice, and you cannot strip me of that right,” she asserted.
A Call for Change
Khan and Qureshi are determined to continue their advocacy against Bill 94, hoping to raise awareness about the implications of such policies on community engagement and familial involvement in education. Their experiences raise vital questions about inclusivity and the treatment of minority communities within the province.
Why it Matters
The situation faced by Khan and Qureshi underscores a broader societal issue regarding religious freedoms and the integration of diverse cultures within Quebec. By excluding individuals from contributing to their children’s schools based on their appearance, the province risks alienating significant segments of its community. As discussions around inclusivity and acceptance evolve, the voices of those affected by such policies will be crucial in shaping a more equitable future for all.
