Individual Narratives

A hijab, meaning 'cover' is a piece of fabric worn by many Islamic women which covers their head. The intended purpose of this covering was to obscure femininity. In most countries all over the world women have a choice whether or not to wear the veil, which to some is a proud symbol of modesty. However, in Iran there is a mandatory law that women must don their veils in public at all times or risk punishments that can include refusal from public establishments such as restaurants to harassment by police or even arrest. This law has been in effect since 1979 and it would appear that there is no end in sight. In Islam it is said, through religious teachings, that no one can be forced to wear the veil. Yet, in a country where the predominant religion is Islam they impose a law that seems to go against the teachings of their owned sacred religion. While the Qur'an, the holy book in Islam, does speak of modesty for women, many feel that it is being taken too literally. Women have become increasingly unhappy with this compulsory law. There have been riots and attempts to persuade the government to reform, or repeal the law but they have had no success with the matter. This law is only one of the many limitations placed upon women in Iran. Equality is not valued by the government there for it is stated in laws that a woman is only worth half of a man, this applies to matters such as inheritance. With the more publicity this matter gets, and the rise in rebellion it has people wondering if change is on the horizon or if the government is going to tighten their grip on the scant amount of freedom women have to cling to. 

I am...

I am myself, unique and unlike any other. I may share ideas and beliefs with others, but not in the same combination that I possess. I enjoy writing, the silence of night, the comfort of a good book, fashion and all it entails as well as a warm cup of tea. I believe in a little kindness going a long way, that a little retail therapy came do wonders and that there is such thing as true love. Life is a journey, one I have been embarked on for eighteen years now in which I have lost, loved, and learned there is always more to be found. I hold family to get importance with the belief that we must cherish every day. I have come to understand mistakes are lessons to be learned and that by heeding those lessons we can improve ourselves. I have always been an avid reader, which correlates to my enjoyment of English class to which I feel I bring a positive outlook and attitude. I find myself looking forward to growing as a writer, expanding my knowledge, and absorbing all there is to learn this semester. This is my second semester of Cabrillo, my first year of college, in addition to being my first year of adulthood. I can’t tell you all there is to know about me, for I am changing every day and growing more and more into the person I someday will be. Who might that person be? I have yet to find out, so I guess we will have to wait and see.