Muslim Women Wearing Hijab: Portrayal, Value, and Identity

Dr. Jet Paul Dela Cruz^a

 ^{_______________________________________}

 ^aEnderun Colleges

Keywords:  Muslim women, hijab, self-identity, self-portrayal, self-value

ABSTRACT

Muslim women wearing hijabs have the subject of different perception. Either they are seen as marginalized, oppressed, weak, and voiceless which was cemented in the consciousness of those who fully grasp its cultural and religious significance. This study aims to show that despite some negative personification that dominates Muslim women wearing hijabs, there are still avenues to propagate greater understanding. Hijab is more than just a piece of cloth worn by Muslim women, or merely a cultural representation. But somewhat veiled Muslim women exude self-identity, self-portrayal and self-value. The researcher found out that despite the dominance of incoherence in looking at Muslim women, the respondents still saw that hijab represents strength that women are empowered and active parts of society, it also shows modesty, piety, and humility.