iamoppressed:

Disclaimer: I totally stole this picture from Loyola’s flickr account.

These hijabis, who I’m honored to call close friends, are the bravest people I know. The thing that I admire most about them is their extra effort to show that they are beautiful, even though they shouldn’t have to. They’re good to everyone, even people who don’t deserve their kindness.

This picture was taken at the 9/11 vigil at Loyola (if you haven’t figured it out, I’m the dork on the right in the one-length bob). In spite of anxiety (maybe fear, whatever), they had the grit to go, because it was important to show that they honored the victims too. I knew one of them got a few judgmental looks, which sickens me. I think I get angrier about the stares than they do.

Even when they were judged, they had the guts to show that they’re as American as anyone else there. They have all the same rights, and that includes the benefits of the first amendment. That includes the right to dress as their religion dictates, and to educate people about what it means.

It’s very cliche, but it’s true that beauty comes from within. It’s also true that ugly goes to the bone. They are the bravest, strongest, most beautiful people I know. They handle ugly people and oppression beautifully. I just wish they didn’t have to.