World Hijab Day was founded by Nazma Khan in 2013 and has since been celebrated on 1st February of each year in over 140 countries worldwide. The annual event is an initiative to encourage women of all religions and backgrounds to wear and experience the Hijab for a day and to educate and spread awareness on why the Hijab is observed by both Muslim men and women.
On 31st January 2023, Muslims in Rail (MIR) held their "Ask Us About Hijab" pop-up event to educate members of the public about the religious practice of modesty in Islam,
"We plan to mark the day by giving members of the public at Paddington Station the opportunity to try on (wear) a headscarf and learn about the Hijab. This offers an opportunity for people to ask questions they have always wondered about, and to experience and learn about Islam in a meaningful and interactive way, removing misconceptions and encouraging tolerance and cultural understanding."
Members of the Aab team joined volunteers from MIR at the event and brought several Aab Hijabs for curious passers-by to try on. The event was successful and engaging, with many people wanting to try on a headscarf and asking questions to better their understanding of the Hijab.
*Muslims in Rail (MIR) is a national network of professionals drawn from leading rail and transport organisations who are motivated by our faith to connect with and inspire people working with and using the railway. Learn more about MIR here.