The Muslim identity
The Toronto Star recently interviewed three women who choose to wear the hijab in order to be “identifiable Muslims.” Each woman stated that this decision was motivated by faith and political ideals, not family tradition.
During her first year at Ryerson, Ambreen Syed, 24, was motivated to wear the hijab after attending the annual GTA Muslim convention. “The hijab is part of my identity,” said Syed, who feels that the convention “opened [a] door to self-discovery.”
“I wanted to be identified as a Muslim,” she continued, describing how the hijab makes her feel empowered.
After a 2006 pilgrimage to Mecca that “revolved around prayer and goodness,” Sophie Siddiqi, 30, chose to wear the Muslim headscarf.
Sahar Ammor, 18, decided to wear the hijab a year ago, to strengthen her personal relationship with God. ”It reminds me that since I don’t live in a Muslim country, I have to keep my mind on my faith and that I’m representing Islam,” she explained.
For these women, and other hijabis, the hijab “completes their identity”.
With files from the Toronto Star.
–Gabriella Lambert
Thousands Run for the Cure
Thirty-thousand runners made their way through downtown Toronto in the annual Run for the Cure event on Sunday, September 30.
The run, which took place in over 56 cities across Canada, aims to raise money for breast cancer research. This year, the event aimed to raise over $33 million nationally. Last week’s Toronto run raised over $5 million.
Diane Gordon of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation stressed that the campaign is not just about the money. “The event is more than just fundraising – it’s as simple as hope for [those affected],” she told 680 News.
The event is gradually becoming a worldwide phenomenon. Participants ran in Kandahar, Afghanistan this year; this is the first time an overseas team has participated.
With files from 680 News and CTV
–Charlotte Smith
