As we all know now Quebec's Bill 94 bans women from wearing the Hijab (aka face mask) from receiving its provincial government services.
As a Libertarian, I do not really care what people wear in public, within the bounds of modesty.
Therefore, Muslim Women receiving services from their own government should be able to dress as they wish in public. Full Stop.
It is not up to our Society to say they are being forced to adopt this dress by Male Muslims, even if true. Muslim Women must come to this conclusion themselves and liberate themselves.
There are other Muslim Traditions that are not consistent with our Values (e.g. female genital cutting) and cannot be tolerated, but dress does not and should not fall into that category.
That is not to say the wearing of the Hijab is appropriate in all circumstances. It is not.
Here are some areas where I oppose its wearing:
- Bureaucrats providing service to the public. I believe that citizens should have the right to see the face of whomsoever is serving them. In addition to civil servants, this would include teachers, hospital workers, police / fire, armed forces and so on. This would not extend to the private sector- that should be the decision solely of the employer.
- Obtaining and using various permits and cards - e.g. driving permits, health care cards and the like. This would include the act of driving itself.
- Voting.
I have heard it said that the Hijab should not be worn by patrons of our banks and other financial institutions. I disagree since I see their right to wear this garb supersedes the concern that it could be used by robbers. If it becomes a big problem - the matter could then be revisited.
I cannot imagine wearing a Hijab- especially with the many restrictions noted above but if a Muslim Woman wants to wear one - that should be her sole decision without Big Brother - in this case Quebec - interfering.
As I see it...
"Galagher"
