To veil or not to veil?

Johnny, Canada — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 19:46:10 GMT

I don't understand, You guys toppled Secular Government of Saddam Hussien, to replace it with a Religious one, why are Americans complaining now? they have freedom to elect their own Government which they now have.

To veil or not to veil?

Alvin, Toronto — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 20:27:27 GMT

i dont like the situation either, but like they say.. when in rome, do as romans..

To veil or not to veil?

ZAIDALI ,PUNE,INDIA — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 20:28:10 GMT

WHO EVER SAYS THAT "strict Islamic law" DOES NOT KNOW ISLAMIC LAW. I WOULD REQUEST THE AUTHORS THAT THEY DO NOT GET ISLAM IN TO PICTURE. AS ISLAM IS NOT RELIGEON BUT IT IS A "WAY OF LIVING".AND THERE ARE RULES SET UP BY THIS "WAY OF LIVING ".IT SAY THAT IF U KILL A PERSON YOU KILL THE HUMANITY AND A TRUE MUSLIM WILL NOT HURT ANY ONE.A MUSLIM IS ANSWERABLE TO HIS DEEDS
FROM SCRATCHING GROUND TO TOUCHING BROTHERS CLOTH.
SO THE POINT IS THOSE WHO TORTURE OR TORMENT LADIES DO NOT KNOW ISLAM AND ARE WORSHIPING THERE WILL.
AND FOR "VEIL" ISLAM CONSIDERS LADIES AS A PRECIOUS JEMS WHICH HAVE TO BE PROTECTED FROM EVIL EYES.JUST LIKE JEMS WHICH YOU HAVE CANNOT BE SET TO DISPLAY FOR ANY ONE TO PICK IT UP AND RUN AWAY.
"Anger dwells only in the bosom of fools. "

To veil or not to veil?

jorge — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 20:37:23 GMT

Hmm, the Bush administration told us that this kind of thing was not going to happen on our watch.

Of course, we all know how much the word of this administration is worth, don't we?

To veil or not to veil?

Ali — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 21:19:18 GMT

Do you think a time will come when women can wear whatever they want instead of what men say they can wear? Do you think the women of Iraq and other countries will be able to stand up and proclaim their independence? Will there come a time when the whole world realizes that we are all just people, and no person has the right to dictate what other people wear, what language they speak, what god they believe in? I hope I live to see that day.

To veil or not to veil?

N State College PA — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 21:19:54 GMT

I only wish that your model of freedom and independence is adopted by everyone, world wide.

If a woman should choose to wear the veil, she may, but for any group to force this is a terrible thing.

To veil or not to veil?

Elsie E Connelly, Lincoln, NE — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 21:30:06 GMT

Don't know who the author is, but staying out of dangerous areas is okay to protect yourself, but are you not supposed to care for others? Seems like you want it both ways.
I think you should kiss the ground that the US soldiers are walking on, because that's the only reason you can appear without full coverage!

To veil or not to veil?

Pete G. — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 21:57:02 GMT

And now I have to ask "Where are all the women lib people now?". If the rest of you want to reach out to the people of this faith, have at it, but for me there isn't anything to discuss except maybe execution for those men. But you Left wing people are so interested in bringing down G. B. that you would sacrifice all the women in the middle east just to get what you want.

To veil or not to veil?

Mario Rios Pinot NY NY — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 21:59:34 GMT

From what I have heard orthodox Jewish women have to shave their heads and lots of other bad things. Why do not we invade Jewish neighborhoods throughout the USA and liberate them? After all look at your own garden before you criticise others.

To veil or not to veil?

Pete G. — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:01:37 GMT

Where are the women's lib groups now?

To veil or not to veil?

Mark Patterson, Ringgold, GA — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 22:14:54 GMT

It is unforunate that a religon has such un-realistic, impractical, and out-dated rules that failing to follow those rules means inhumane treatment up to death. I'm lucky, I am an American.

To veil or not to veil?

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 23:06:09 GMT

I looked at the story concerning how the women of Basra are being targeted by the Sunni and Shiite extremists. It is just horrible the way the women are treated. I suppose if you want to survive when you leave your home the only way is to wear a veil. I admire your attitude of determining to be independent, but I can understand fully why you would still need to wear the veil and Islamic gown over your other clothes when you venture outside. If you can avoid the extremists areas than you are very fortunate. I hope you continue to be so fortunate. Peace to you and to all!

To veil or not to veil?

M, Canada — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 02:07:44 GMT

I completely understand Muslim women wanting to wear veils for religious purposes, and I have no problems with this. However, I don't believe that they should be punished for not veiling-- the nice thing about God, Allah, Yaweh, Buddha or whatever incarnation you personally believe in is that he/she/they have given us free will for a reason. We are able to change, and to think for ourselves, and that's the beauty of life. I don't think that other people have rights to enforce "God's Law". People are fallible-- they make mistakes, mis-translate things and just generally aren't the most pure of God (etc.)'s creatures. If God, in whatever incarnation he/she/they does/do exist finds that this is wrong, then he/she/they will deal with it in some divine manner that doesn't involve mentally scarring children and women.

However, I believe that God has bigger things to deal with than whether or not I wear a bit of makeup.

To veil or not to veil?

Logik — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 02:33:13 GMT

I really think the era when religion dictates what people can and cannot say, wear or do should be brought to a close as soon as possible.

Just say no.

To veil or not to veil?

R Stafford — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 02:49:50 GMT

Why is it we always impose our own beliefs/values on other people? If they told us what to do, I'm sure we would react just as negatively. Worry about our backyard, not someone else's for once, would you?

To veil or not to veil?

Norman Rondeau, Texas City, TX — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 02:52:35 GMT

It would seem that these extreemists are like those everywhere (US included). They are cowards who pick on targets that cannot or will not fight back. Worse, they do it in the name or religion. It is not religion to kill someone who does not comply with the strict interpretations of the religion, it is, to put it simply, cowardice at its murderous worst! The ones doing these deeds do not believe God is Great. They believe they are God.

To veil or not to veil?

Kristen Johanson, Seattle, Washington — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 02:57:38 GMT

I don't think women should be killed for breaking the Islamic law. Imprison them for six months if they must, but no killing.

You have to respect the Muslims for insisting the women dress modestly. Can't get the men all worked up with lust, ya' know. ;) They save money by not buying clothes and make-up.

At least the women in the middle-east don't look like hose as women do in the U.S., e.g. Britney Spears wearing no panties and showing off her naked crotch.......eewwww!

To veil or not to veil?

Ty Hicks TroupTx75789 — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 03:08:36 GMT

"YES" I am not from that location;but I beleive that women should wear a veil for religious reasons.

To veil or not to veil?

American — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 03:14:47 GMT

The treatment of women is horrendous, but the people in Islamic Countries need to stand up and take control of their own lives. They cannot always expect the US and other countries to stand up for them. Women all over the world have fought for their rights at one time or another. In the Islamic countries that is not happening. They want the US and other countries to come in and 'fix' the problems for them. But that won't always work. The US has gone in and 'fixed' these problems in some of these countries in the past. The result is that the people go right back to delegating leadership roles to the same type of oppressive, dehumanizeing regiments, as always. These people need to stand up for themselves and take a stand, and then they need to reinenforce it over and over and over again instead of electing the same type of religious extremists into office again. As long as they allow the religious extremist to control them, the religious extremists will always control their country. The US can only come to their rescue so many times before they need to start rescuing themselves.

To veil or not to veil?

abdurrahmaan — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 04:05:46 GMT

just think my dear sister in islam:

you didnt dress "as usual", for fear of the creation and not fear of The Creator, Allah. and again, you didnt dress "as usual", to prevent from shaming your aunt, but at the same time you have no shame in front of Allah. i ask you by Allah: how it this possible?

how is it possible for you to fear something that cannot harm you unless Allah allows it and cannot benefit you unless Allah allows it, but you have no fear of The One Who can harm you while no one can prevent Him?

how is it possible to have shame and be embarassed in front of mankind, but not in front of their Creator. does not Allah have more right that you should have shame and be embarassed in front of Him to commit sin openly in public like that?

indeed we all commit sins and make errors, but the one who conceals himself while sinning, IS NOT LIKE the one who sins in front of everyone openly, defiantly.

turn back to your Lord, Allah, and read The Qur'aan and seek His guidance and ask His forgiveness before the day comes that you AND I will be asked about what we did in this life-whether we obeyed or disobeyed The One Who gave us this life to begin with. indeed, that will be a terrifying day and i ask Allah to grant you and me both success on that day. but its starts with us first. and i am working on myself. what are you doing for yourself for the akhirah?

salaamun ala man ittabaa al huda.

To veil or not to veil?

bert bernier — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 04:11:08 GMT

OOPs Ever seen a MOSQUE & you will as are being built now here in AMERICA like another 7/11 & one is built every hour. PRINT THIS AS IS JUST THE START OF AMERICA AS A 3rd WORLD NATION.

To veil or not to veil?

john a. fulgenzi — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 04:27:04 GMT

wearing the viel just like the 5 prayers a day is a means to keep the people under the control of the moslem church leaders who attrtact the ignorant losers to be their enforcers. the religion has keep these people in poverty since 700 ad. as long as they have & ignoance the imans can stay in power.

To veil or not to veil?

KMK Shanghai, China — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 04:32:15 GMT

To the author: Godspeed. I wish you good luck in your efforts to report what is going on. As a woman, I believe it is important to have some insight into the lives of women around the world. Let us know what we can do to help if there is anything.

To veil or not to veil?

BJA, Newtown Square, PA — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 04:36:18 GMT

I applaud the woman and those like this woman.
It is a challenge to recognize one's own voice and to follow it in such an environment. I applaud this woman as she has taken ownership of her life.
May all the other women who are fearful look inside and listen to the voice that tells each one of them they are special.

To veil or not to veil?

joan, salem nh — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 05:05:03 GMT

I pray and wish strength will touch all of the women in this area. You have the power to change things, you are in my thoughts.

To veil or not to veil?

Zaidi Sulaiman, KL, Malaysia — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 05:13:53 GMT

I'm a Malaysian Muslim and here the women are free to choose to put on the veil or not. A decent dress code is an important part of the practice but there are so many other aspects of living that are more crucial in the process of the betterment of the nation like education, health care, public amenities and the like. The authorities should put in their effort towards addressing all these issues more than a mundane issue of women's dressing.

To veil or not to veil?

Tommy C, Cincinnati, OH — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 05:25:10 GMT

I've done some reading about Islam. I can't believe what's going on in the middle east right now. Stonings, hangings of juveniles, burqas, beheadings, this is insane. Their beliefs are based on an illconceived bedtime story that wasn't fully (shall I say) interpretted until 180 yrs after Mohamed's death.
Mohamed was an illiterate. He had no ability to transcribe the dreams he had. It's time for islam to do a serious introspection of it's rites and rituals.
I've always said, "If it weren't for chaperones, there'd be more Baptists." What I mean is that we impose our beliefs upon others. Islam needs to back off...develope a trust for their fellow man. The hate, discord and distrust is actually a true reflection of their inherent nature. Too bad, Islamisbad.
T (Oct 13...)

PS: How woman are treated is shameful. Your spouse is your equal. Your ficticious belief structure is so hateful and discriminatory. You are inable to trust because you are inherently distrustful and complicitely deceitful. How you make it through a night is beyond me.

To veil or not to veil?

David Mulligan — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 05:33:23 GMT

I rather die than live like a cow, getting fed and without a brain,only to be slaughtered later.

To veil or not to veil?

Ron Harris, Pereira, Colombia — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 06:16:06 GMT

One has to admire the lady who visited her aunt, as she is an example of an old saying. In order for things to change, you've got to change, or they will be as they always have been. The women in all Iraq need to stand up for thier rights as women, unite and fight back. Extremists can be eliminated, and the women can help do this. I am willing to bet that in the neighborhoods where you have these extremists, the people know who these extremists are, where they live, hangout, ect. It sems the local police are doing nothing abut the situation, so, ladies of Iraq, unite, turn these extremists in to the US Military. I'm sure our troops would be very happy to eleminate the problem.

To veil or not to veil?

Shihabudeen, Bend, Or — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 06:26:00 GMT

The Holy Quran al Haqq, says in the Second Chapter (surah) 256 verse (ayat) "There is no compulsion in Religion..." such is God's Will on the matter... headcovering is an order of God Almighty which is followed by believing women in judaism they wear the veil, Christianity... (the nuns habit)and islam (the Hijab)... its his obligation... for those who wish to follow his guidance... the rest should be free not to but are bound by rituals of culture gender, politics... etc... instead of faith... I pray that all believers be seen as following from love... and not any other provocations... (Shihabudeen a Chicano Convert to islam)

To veil or not to veil?

Cerilo Fernan, Manila Philippines — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 06:37:46 GMT

Query, does The Qur 'an contains the story of Onan,
In Christian Old Testament Bible he was the one who to obtain sexual release engaged a prostitue who can be recognized in public since they wear veil to conceal their faces (to hide their shame because of their profession?) Of course the woman he engaged was his brother's widowed wife. Anyway that story reveals Jewish custom and tradition regarding the practice of prostitution in the olden times when the Law of Moses hold sway in their every day life. Ahh! times had really changed!!! In the old women who appear veiled in public, are the ill refute ones, nowaday, the veiled one are supposed to be virtuos.

To veil or not to veil?

Donna Lima, OH — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 06:48:25 GMT

I believe women have a right to not wear the veil if they choose. The men in the Muslim countries are afraid of their women not being under their thumbs anymore........they like the control. They are a pretty sad lot. Give me an American Man any day........we are treated as equals here. It's great being free to choose.

To veil or not to veil?

Roy Clark, Philadelphia, Penna. — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 08:29:48 GMT

This journalist sounds like a young woman recently out of college with the usual untested ideal of being her own person. She says, "I will not change my life in order to appease militias." That is not clever or wise. I live in Philadelphia and we had over 300+ murders this year. And yes, I changed my habits and lifestyle. She may be use to wearing European/American fashions and see it as her right to wear what she wants. But I suspect that there is so much resentment and anger against the American and European/Coalition forces for occupying Iraq that anyone wearing those clothes may be perceived as part or supporters of the Coalition forces. To the best of my knowledge it has been several years now since any journalists or American/European/Coalition forces have been able to walk freely outside of the Green Zone. All this is to say that the journalist may be attacked for wearing American/European style fashions, not to force her to wear the veil.

To veil or not to veil?

Yakov, Longmont, CO — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 09:50:33 GMT

As a Christian I believe that in the sight of God there is no difference between male or female as pertaining to being a child of God. Also the wife should reverence her husband and the husband should love his wife as his own self and that he should show honour as to the weaker vessel. In my religion I don't believe in the platting of hair or the wearing of gold, pearls, or costly array, but the inner virtue of the woman being of a meak and quiet spirit which in the sight of God is a great worth. But to put to death a lady for what she wears is wrong, but who am I to tell a different religion or culture what's best for them.

To veil or not to veil?

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 09:56:20 GMT

12th century minds in 21st century world. Women treated worse than cattle. All this in the name of some stupid god. Does this make you as sick as it makes me?

To veil or not to veil?

rosi, richmond, va — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 10:19:19 GMT

Aww, Who cares. People are so woried about the rest of the world, but not our own country. "Children are starving in Africa" So what, Children are starving right here in the US. "We need to outsource because people in India don't have jobs" Oh really? How bout our own people who are homeless because they don't have jobs. "people in Iraq aren't allowed to practice Christianity" So what. People here aren't allowed to acknowledge "God" in any public because a few Godless heathens will be offended.
The hell with em all. We need to bring God, jobs and health care back to the people of THIS country before we go worrying about the rest of the world.

To veil or not to veil?

Don Anderson - Wellesley Island, NY — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 11:28:24 GMT

There are two things I can't quite make up my mind about - one is to do with male dominated societies where for example the wearing of burkas or at least veils is compulsory and the other is my choice for democratic candidate in the 2008 Presidential election.

As her first gesture of diplomacy, I like the idea of Democratic candidate Clinton travelling to these areas and expressing her views on the subject - this is a sort of a two birds with one stone idea I was just having over here.

To veil or not to veil?

Maxx Folsom CA — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 11:34:35 GMT

A Jihad on the veil.

To veil or not to veil?

David J Forbes Abu Dhabi UAE — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 12:12:53 GMT

You are a courageous lady...submission to religious fruitcakes only gets us the Taliban, or the Spanish Inquisition...we need to hope that scientific education will prevail over perfect absurdity in the long run; but tribal societies thrive on ignorance and stupidity, and in the short run, you are clearly at risk. Good luck!

To veil or not to veil?

Najla Zakiyyah, Raleigh NC — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 12:38:15 GMT

what these people are doing is not Islamic law or based on Islam at all. It goes against the Quran to force people to adhere to religious practices. The purpose of the head scarf was to ensure that a woman could move about "Freely" and not be molested in the land. Not so she can go and sit inactive and mute, in a house or behind a wall. So that you as a female become a mind and a force to be reckoned with, not a pair of breast that men talk to or a hair color that lets people know you can have more fun, or a certain body shape and size that gets you employed faster or rejected.
Unfortunately I see a group of confused weak minded people, the Mullahs included, who no longer practice Islam. Instead they run around following and issuing laws based on the worst elements of their backwards cultural practices and beliefs and saying that’s its part of the religion in order to rubber stamp its validity. The society is over run with fatwas and made up hadiths and hardly anyone at all is reading and actually following the Quran or holding these liars who say they are doing what Islam says accountable for it. Women need to grow a back bone and start fearing God and not some bitter twisted man, who’s most likely on his way to hell. Sure it’s easy to say when you’re not in that situation. However where’s the solidarity?

To veil or not to veil?

Frank — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 12:59:18 GMT

It is a shame that in 2007 there are humans still living in biblical times, how can these people ever live in a democracy? never

To veil or not to veil?

Devendra K. Sood, Boston, MA — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 13:12:08 GMT

First of all, it is a pity that Islam is such an inflexible religion. It teaches fanatisam and history is a living proof of that. Not that other religions were or are perfect but Islam is some thing else when it comes to fanaticsm and hatered towards other religions. I don't have to convince any open minded person be he Muslim or Non-Muslim.There are good moderate Muslims but unfortunately they either want it both ways or are so cowered by the small minority fanatics that they dare not speak up.
I wish there was a way that all Mulism nations could be ruled by the Islamist fanatics with their Sharia and the rest of the world just did not interefere. I would bet you even money that these idiots would be thrown out by the Muslim majority so fast, their heads would spin. Iran is a Muslim country ruled under Sharia. Can any educated, open minded Muslim tell me with his hand on Kortan that he believes that Iranians are not coerced in to accepting this Ayatollah's rule under fear of torture or worse. That they would not throw away this evil yoke if they were free to choose. Any one?
Islam is NOT the solution. Islam is the PROBLEM.
David

To veil or not to veil?

ken, phila, pa — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 13:19:30 GMT

correct me if i am wrong, but when she says "Personally, I could never do that. I will not change my life in order to appease militias." isn't that what she just said she did as in " I actually went to see her for the first time in over 18 months when the security situation eased recently. But despite the improved security situation, it was still a difficult journey to get to the neighborhood – the only way I could travel there safely was by wearing a veil and an Islamic gown on top of my normal clothes. "? did she not visit and do that very thing?

i cannot condemn anyone for doing what they can to survive, but don't judge others and then do the same thing...?

To veil or not to veil?

Chuck Swanson, West End, NC — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 13:37:25 GMT

What is the difference between murdering a doctor for performing abortions and killing a woman for refusing to wear a veil? The answer - nothing. Both are done in the name of religion, and that (religion) is the problem. Until that is fixed, nothing will change.

To veil or not to veil?

ben stahl, lincoln, ebraska — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 14:15:47 GMT

I can't help but feel that murdering women or men because they don't subscribe to strict Islamic directions concerning dress codes is barbaric, of course this view is from the eyes of an American who has only known and understands personal choice.
Since 09/11 we and the rest of the non Islamic world have come to know and have a much better undestanding of the barbaric, facist, Islamic way of life.
I believe that our invasion of Iraq was ill conceived and that our attention should have been focused on Afganistan where we knew, without a doubt that the Taliban and Alquaida were plotting and training to inflict further and horrendous attacks on us. Most of the rest of the world felt that way also and we had and still do have whole hearted support for what we are doing there. There are, countries, (Canada for one)who have troops along side of ours in Afganistan but will not send troops to Iraq.
In saying all of the above, please don't make the mistake of thinking that I am a "Weak kneed antiwar protestor" beacuse I am a long term Veteran and served 37 months in the Vietname war, which I also thought was ill conceived.

To veil or not to veil?

Nancy B. Perkins — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 14:24:51 GMT

I taught school in Saudi and Kuwait. In Saudi, I was ordered to put on the entire covering - I choose to cover my face with two layers because I hated walking on the street while shopping and being called "harlot." I asked why they did this and I was told that all Western women are considered prostitutes. I wore what I was asked by the authorities when I arrived at the airport but I was treated then and forever after that with total distain and rudeness by the men. I couldn't wait to get out of there - daily the Imam called out for prayers saying "Allah Akbar - Death to Americans" - this went on 4 times a day for all to hear - the Arab Times posted when women would be stoned in public - what a wonderful, "holy" place

To veil or not to veil?

Mary Louise Van Dyke, Bettendorf, Iowa — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 14:26:49 GMT

I don't believe wearing a head scarf or dressing modestly under certain circumstances is offensive.
I am a journalist in the United States who occasionally writes about the local Muslim and Sikh communities. When I am in their houses of worship I wear appropriate clothing, including a head scarf, out of respect for their customs.
I do not believe this diminishes who I am. It is a sign of respect for their culture.
And Inshallah, I will continue to do so.

To veil or not to veil?

Elizabeth, Seattle, WA — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 14:35:00 GMT

I believe that wearing the veil/hijab is a blessing from God and that we should as Muslims all wear it however. It is not meant to be a burden on us either. Therefore forcing a woman to wear hijab/veil is absolutely unlawful. It is her choice to follow the word of God or not.

To veil or not to veil?

Leslie Hatcher, Southlake, Texas — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 15:12:23 GMT

I wish I knew what to do about the violence waged against women all over the world. Whether under the guise of religion, war or both, the outcomes are the same. Women are the sacrificial lambs of society. Even violence against children is often a way to harm women. It is no secret that our children are our soul. To be born in the US is the best chance for survival, but Americans too treat the "fairer" sex as property, and the inequalities are a part of daily existence. So much so, that most women in our society don't even realize that they deserve better. To veil or not to veil? Like everything else in the world, it should be a choice. I wish I knew what to do, to spread "free will" across the world to all women, and to put a stop to the oppression that men impose under the guise of..just about anything. So the war "we" are fighting over there...how's that going? It doesn't sound like "religious" oppression has been exactly lifted like a veil.

To veil or not to veil?

Elizabeth West — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 15:16:51 GMT

Madam Journalist; Please keep up the good work, and as dangerous as it can be for you, please do not let your independence and political position be squashed.
What I see happening around this world is a major change in how humanity is evolving past the organized religions of the last few thousand years, all of which were created by the male of the species, and claiming God/Allah told them what to say, and how all of us "should" behave. Religion was created for control of the masses by a select few. No loving parent (Creator) would deliberately choose to have half their children be subjected to the whims of the other half.
I too am descended from a religious sect who believes women are property, the Mormon polygamists, and my mother and aunts rebelled and left to have lives of their own choosing. We women have one hell of a battle still to wade through. May I suggest that you get a copy of the documentary, "The Science of the Sexes", available through the Discovery channel. A connection to, and a relationship with one's Creator is a deeply private thing, and no man or woman can tell, much less force, another to acknowledge
one's personal beliefs. One's religious beliefs should be kept as private as one's sex life. No matter how we address the Creator, we're all praying to the same Entity, and you must know that you carry my prayers with you, as do all oppressed peoples of this Earth. Stay strong and stay safe.
In Peace and Prosperity, Elizabeth

To veil or not to veil?

Mindy L, Illinois — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 15:23:45 GMT

I have actually been doing research on the veil for my Women and Gender is Islam class and I have come across some interesting things. What has caught my attention the most, is women in Western societies who choose to veil. Through my research, I have seen that they not only choose to veil for religious purposes--many choose to do so for social utility. In our society, people are bombarded with images of the ideal beautiful woman. For many of us, it is impossible to live up to this, and it just seems like many objectify ourselves trying to do so. A lot of women I read about wear the veil in order to rebel against this beauty standard--you see the woman for who she is, her intellect, her personality, her soul. Physical appearance is taken out of the picture. I can totally see the utility in this.

To veil or not to veil?

Malia, Los Angeles, CA — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 15:34:52 GMT

You say you could never "change my life in order to appease militias," however, you did exactly that when you went to visit your Aunt. You are not walking what you're talking.

To veil or not to veil?

rob, oakland, ca. — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 16:03:24 GMT

But I thought islam is the religion of peace!?! Surely this is some kind of evil western propaganda, portraying Islam as mysoginist in the extreme! This must be a deliberate misinformation attempt to slander Islam, like the west did when the jews destroyed those buildings on 9/11, and tried to blame it on muslim terrorists instead. At least I hope those women killed for not wearing a veil get their own virgins in heaven, like those martyrs do when they suicide bomb markets and schools.

To veil or not to veil?

Saint Louis, Mo — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 16:07:14 GMT

I am originally from Bosnia and I am a Muslim too. I have never worn a veil except when praying. I wasn never obligated to wear it! I think it all depends on how you were raised and where the person lives. In some Muslim countries its the law for a woman to wear a vail, but then there are countries where you are not required to wear one...so it all depends on your cirumstances.

To veil or not to veil?

Polly, Columbia, MO — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 16:19:32 GMT

I feel that the veil is a personal choice, Many people
of a religion do not quite understand the words of their Holy Book. There is a metaphoric veil that keeps us safe from bad situations and that is to lower
our gaze at each other and to dress appropriatly and to be respectful of others. stay modist and cover our chest. Above all put on the dress of rightousness not self rightousness.

To veil or not to veil?

Bassil Duwaik, Denver, CO. USA — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 16:25:39 GMT

Could what's happening in Iraq equate to what's going on in France where it's almost mandatory to not wear it. I'm sure France isn't as extreme as it is in Iraq but I believe there are similarities. All in all people should have the right to choose what type of attire they wish to wear. As long as their not running around naked I don't see what's the problem.

To veil or not to veil?

Jim West — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 16:31:27 GMT

If the mind is the creator of everything there is, good and bad, then the veil will protect the woman from bad. After all wasn't she used before in the creation by..... . I give the benefit of the doubt that wearing the veil may be good for woman.

To veil or not to veil?

D. Scott — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 16:39:09 GMT

Masked men have long been considered outlaws and therefore illegal in most parts. Why should women be any different?

To veil or not to veil?

Jane Doe, Los Angeles, CA — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 16:43:21 GMT

All religions use the oppression of women to solidify the power of men and increase their number of male adherents. The violent control over women that Americans are seeing not only in Iraq but also in Iran and Saudi Arabia is just more evidence that my words speak the truth. Born and raised a Ctholic, I now see what that religion is all about and I don't like what I have been seeing. Be courageous!

To veil or not to veil?

mary groh — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 16:54:23 GMT

Without being fully educated as to the religious aspects of the veil, i could not judge a woman who wears the veil because it is a part of her personal belief system. however, my god would never force me to wear a veil, nor would he condone those who kill me because i refuse to wear one. i think the veil is really a male symbol of power over the women of islamic countries who are dominated and repressed. i think it is a shame that women are treated this way, and i applaud women who have the courage to stand up and fight for their rights

To veil or not to veil?

alex waugh, cyprus — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 17:43:34 GMT

I write to wish you well and applaud your courage. These brutes are NOT the real representatives of Islam. They merely use it to cloak their innate viciousness. They don't love god - they hate women. Good luck to you and other women who resist the militias. If there is an afterlife, they will be punished for their crimes against their sisters.

To veil or not to veil?

Greg, Balad — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 17:59:29 GMT

When you read stories such as this, it makes one wonder why more Muslim women dont stand up and fight against these religious extremists? If extremism Islam is the "norm" in the Middle East then its easy to see why Muslim males dehumanizes women to the level of cattle. The sad part is that the rest of the world insists on calling Islam a peaceful, honorable religion when its anything but...

We are all (male/female) born into this world innocent and free, except women who are FORCED to accept Islam as a way of life. Their future is one of torment and subjegation.....

To veil or not to veil?

G.S., Brasilia, Brazil — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 18:09:43 GMT

I have no issue with those who choose to wear a veil IF it's their personal choice to do so. What I hate to see or read about is a twisting or perversion of religious ideals that results in subjugating or curtailing the freedom of people, especially women, simply because insecure people fear the alternative. (And in my opinion, that is applicable to any religion--Islam, Chrisitianity, Judaism, or any other faith. Each is guilty of attributing evil and sin to others, a form of self-absolution in the process.) So, in terms of your own story: I respect you for being in the first category of women in Iraq. I also respect those in the second category you mentioned--those who wear the veil or cover because they like and believe in it, not because they are forced to. Those two categories, to me, represent freedom--the freedom to choose, albeit under limited circumstances as you have mentioned. I feel very badly for those in categories three and four, and you yourself became part of the last group briefly out of respect for your aunt's safety. I hope that you continue to be able to live freely for the majority of your life. Best wishes.

To veil or not to veil?

M. Smith, Germany — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 18:16:07 GMT

Maybe it was not so bad under Saddam, after all, when we consider a multitude of things that are no longer allowed since the invasion.

To veil or not to veil?

Jim — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 18:25:43 GMT

I have always wondered why is it that you only hear about Islamic law pertaining to women. Why don't men have to wear face covers and have women punishing them if they disobay?

To veil or not to veil?

Juma, MA — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 18:41:57 GMT

Its good when women cover up but they shouldnt be forceed too but teh other thing is ALL MUSLIMS dont force women 2 do so so i hope everyone doesnt think that ALL WOMEN ARE FORCED TO WEAR THEM.INSHALLAH ALL OF THESE WARS WILL END AND INSHALLAH EVERYOEN WILL BE IN PEACE SOON

To veil or not to veil?

datey — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 18:58:02 GMT

its a choice not forced upon a woman the law of the land or it could be freedom what ever u decide its up to u its not to pleased to anyone i have seen american women born and raised here who cover their head veil i asked them and they said it s their choice which extremist forced them wear just look at the news or rape,murder,or any sexual crime and then see the cause of their pattern behaviour and u gona come up the conclusion it happen

To veil or not to veil?

Raymond Lundquist, Walton on Thames, UK — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 18:59:50 GMT

The wearing of the veil has no connection to Islam. There is no mention of the veil in the Koran or other "sacred" documents. As a practising Anglican who has worked for years in Saudi, Yemen, Emirates AND Israel, the connection between the veil and Islam is totally ridiculous.
In all probability, the veil was a clever device to confuse the marauding local tribes and caravaners into deciding exactly who was a tasty 12 year old and who was an 80 year old hag.
Think about it.

To veil or not to veil?

Tony Abyad, houston,Texas — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 19:00:12 GMT

This is a great example that should show the Bush administration and their Iraq invasion supporters that things are not better off now for all Iraquis!

To veil or not to veil?

Samuel Pickands, Ballston Spa, NY — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 19:02:25 GMT

Just wanted to say I'd read your post and the BBC article and find the stories disturbing. On the other hand, I've been opposed to laws against veils and head scarves while living in the US and Germany. I beleive the scarves come down to an individual woman's right to choose what she wears.

Given the widespread commodification of a woman's figure through pornography and commercial images, there are sound reasons why it seems to a me a woman would want to wear a veil and robe. In a way, it challenges men to think about the reasons they consider women "desirable" or "respectable" and examine their reasons for being put off, mystified, or intimidated by the veil. I recall a woman friend of mine in Germany, who was very pretty and fit, enying the veil and robe she saw in some turkish quarters of Berlin, saying that she wished there were some barrier between her and the hungry eyes of men she didn't know.

On the other, I do feel that it's a person's fundamental choice to decide what they wear. And being forced to do so, not because of your own faith but that of men determined to make you conform, is an imposition and wrong. If the leaders were concerned about "improving your character" one would think they would let you wear what you choose so they could see on which women they needed to focus their effort. Thus, forcing the veil on women who don't want to it smacks to me more of power tripping than piety: they want you to remember that you bow to them, not only in your clothing choices but in others.

In any case, Ma'am, thanks for taking the time to send us your thoughts and facing the risks you to bring us peices of the truth from inside Iraq. May the peace of God be upon you.

To veil or not to veil?

Raymond Lundquist, Walton on Thames, UK — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 19:17:48 GMT

To veil or not to veil?

MKJ seattle wa — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 20:06:25 GMT

I wish a person could wear the veil (incl. niqab, the face veil) in America without it seeming strange or causing stares. I think it is very beautiful and it protects a person's privacy. A man who is a stranger has no need to see your face or figure if you are not comfortable with it. In the US, women and girls dress up and show off, but then men are not supposed to look (especially at young girls)even if a woman is showing cleavage ("eyes up here, buddy"). If men are not supposed to ogle women, at their T&A, etc. and if you get mad when men look, then don't show it to them.

PS men who work in strip clubs as bouncers etc. lose their attraction to scantily clad or nude females. They definitely notice tho a well-dressed, smartly and attractively dressed, woman, like in a suit or nice dress that's not too revealing.

There are many in the US who promote modest dress among women (and men). Incl. christian conservatives, and this has spread. A lot of mainstream people are against "Brittney Spears" type dress and are tired of seeing it everywhere, on young girls, teen girls, 20's girls, 30's, even married women and Moms, or older women like Madonna does. Large dept stores such as Pennies and Nordstrom are having girls and teens "modesty" fashion shows. The clothes are still cute, and the girls still like them and think they are cool (they had focus groups of girls who helped design the clothes and tell the designers what they want and what they think is cool). Catalogue companies offer sweaters, shirts and coats that provide more "coverage" as they put in the description, in a hip length (which means, your butt is not out there for all to see). Many mainstream women prefer these. Who knows how many more would dress even more modestly if they would not get negative repercussions for doing so.

When I started to develop, I naturally started "covering" out of modesty. People pushed me to show off my figure. : ( I never was as showy as most of my girl friends (only wore makeup on certain occasions, did not usually wear shorts, etc.)I was not always comfortable going swimming because for a woman, going swimming is very little about swimming and more about having your body judged by others. You have to remove all your hair (incl usually a bikini wax - ouch!) and worry about if you look fat. For awhile, girls I swam with were wearing large oversized T shirts over their swimsuits when they swam. I heard men complained that they couldn't see anything of the girls' figures (most of whom were no older than 13) when they wore these T shirts (these were fathers and grandfathers of girls who were swimming). And fathers of young girls often ogle their young daughter's friends (my own Dad did this, starting when I was about 10. He also liked to go watch women's sports or on TV for the same reason. He took me to a women's rowing regatta because he wanted to see the women athlete in their tight wetsuit style outfits. I know this because he commented about it to me). A lot of men are much better than this of course, but my grandfather was a university professor and my father was a chief engineer (marine). They made very good money and seemed respectable enough. And there was a 14 year old girl in Ireland a few months ago impregnated by her best friends father. And also this year a girl the same age impregnated by her coach. Not all men will be this way but a surprising number will. Women have the right to veil or not but I feel we are being pressured to show ourselves to everyone and go through a lot of work to be "beautiful" for others' viewing pleasure (sometimes lavicious) even if we suffer pain or spend a lot of time and energy to do so, and are devalued for our personality or accomplishments if we don't ("prude", "dyke", "religious freak", etc.)

If it were not considered strange or cause stares, I would wear niqab here in the US when I have to go into the city, etc. Of course you do not wear it among your family or among women. You do whatever you want in your own home or in family occasions and female friend gatherings.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do. It's just a piece of cloth, it's not a big deal to veil. The accompanying social strictures (can't go anywhere without a male escort, etc.) are more strict,and vary from country to country. Most countries are not this strict. I think only Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and at times Iran are this way. Afghanistan, women got to the bazaar, etc. by themself (often wearing really cute high heel shoes and a pedicure visible as per some articles I have read, many have noticed this fashion trend in Afghanistan).

In certain countries, you must wear the veil and sometimes niqab. In the US, you get harrassed for wearing the veil and even more so if you wear niqab. We do have "freedom" in the US but there are cultural norms in each society that pretty much have to be followed unless you want a lot of trouble for yourself. Again, when in Rome. There are lines within which you can work and accomplish pretty much what you want if you work within or around the rules. Again, not saying it's right, but it's not such a big deal (the Delaney sisters talked about traveling extensively in the US and Europe, they carefully picked their locations, their method of travel, and when they went on packages tours, the companies they chose to book and guide their tours or cruises, and they had a marvelous time. This was before segregation had ended in the US and many areas in the US and world were still unfriendly to blacks). Again I'm not saying it's right but rather than say "poor me I can't do anything", realize there are many ways around any situation, and pick you battles. Do you really want to show yourself off that badly? Islamic women are known for their extremely tasteful and beautiful dress -when they go to a women's luncheon or conference, family formal occasion, etc. Tailored suits etc. most people think better dressed than western women. However, they veil in the company of unrelated men. If you are eligible and seeking a mate, there are other ways to meet a mate (and more likely for success - eHarmony for example). And the more you show off your figure, there comes a point you might attract the wrong kind of man (married man looking for an affair, someone who is not interested in your personality at all, etc.).

I have had two female friends who were almost raped when they were out by themselves. They were both just walking by themselves. One hid in the bushes for two hours to escape (she was walking to the apartment she shared with her boyfriend, at night). She saw them circling in their cr and trying to find her. She was an overweight girl and just wearing her work clothes. The other, her boyfriend showed up a couple minutes later. That girl had heard some men in a car say "let's go back and get her" or something to that effect, in a definitely sinister way, and they were circling back to do so, when her boyfriend got there. She was not dressed like a hooker at all. So we think we are so evolved in the US but base instincts still abound. Of course women have every right to be out by themselves, but it is not always safe. That doesn't mean that it should be a rule where women can go and how they are dressed and if they have a male escort or not, but use common sense.

It might be better if we also ran just boys and girls schools separately with heterosexual teachers of that gender as the teachers (because look at the rate of teacher student sex - it has been estimated that there is at least one sexual predator teacher at the minimum in every school district - I myself witnessed a male teacher hitting on a 11 or 12 year old girl in my elementary school, making comments about her figure and how she dressed, etc.).

PS I am a caucasian american female who has no specific religious affiliation, although I have studied many religions incl. Islam and sufi-ism, read the whole bible, buddhism, Indian religions, pagan religions, judaism, mormonism, and incl. atheism, etc.

I would definitely wear niqab if I could.

And there is no reason to "throw the baby out with the bathwater". It is great to learn about other cultures, and even if there is only one thing you learn that you like and agree with, there is no reason not to incorporate that into your own culture or own personal philosophy, just because some people are extremists in that culture (typically a visible minority that does not represent the whole very accurately).

To veil or not to veil?

GA vet atlanta GA — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 20:12:52 GMT

Why can't we all keep our religion to ourselves and God.I have read the Bible many times and I did not see anything about women must wear a veil so I suppose this a man made requirement, therefore it is usless.

To veil or not to veil?

DavidW, Southern Illinois — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 20:57:25 GMT

I can totally agree with you situation. This worse problem of all is that the United States has never realized it "can't buy friends". Tried and proven many times over through history.

So now why do we, and who do we think we are trying to impose 'democracy' on countries of totally different beliefs, customs and faiths of religion.

The odd part is "DEMOCRACY" is a strange definition in the dictionary. It equates to 'Mob Rule of All". Just what has happened there.....

Pray tell why we are trying to impose democracy on anyone.....and something that is escaping from us here every day, due to politicians......

The United States is not a democracy......IT IS A REPUBLIC...........so many forget that.

Comon folks..u want democracy. good...MOB RULE...first we kill all the lawyers, that way there can never be a politiican again.

And remember people, politicians look at acceptable loss. No other country does this......they have more than enough to DIE for their cause. The difference of value and no value on human life.......

Try to win on that thought......WW II, Korea, Vietnam, and still there...............Follow the money trail nowdays, who is getting RICHer.

To veil or not to veil?

Charlene Farber, Tri-Cities, Washington — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 20:59:30 GMT

What I do not get are these feminists and other "modernists" who attack anything certain women want to wear because they believe in modesty rather than this "sexiness" appeal. If Christian women who claim they follow the Bible knew what it stated, they wouldn't be wearing all this flashy jewelry, revealing clothing, or extra makeup either.

To veil or not to veil?

dennis Toronto ont . — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 21:49:28 GMT

are those who oppose the religouse teachings allowed to leave if so i suggest we help them to leave and not try to change the way they want to live there
it is impossible to change set religous believes altough i inderstand to us it is agression against freedom god willing some day they will understand

To veil or not to veil?

Jame, Princeton, WV — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 21:50:02 GMT

It is a mistake to allow Shite's to dominate Iraq. The US should give full support to the Sunnis on the condition that they kill all Al-Quaida in Iraq. A dictatorship dominated by Sunnis is better than a democracy dominated by Shites.
Also - I fail to undrstand why any European nation or the US would want to allow any Moslems to immigrate to their country.
US Christians should worry less about Gay Marriage an more about the Moslem threat to their culture and way of life.

To veil or not to veil?

KAS - Dallas Texas — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 22:01:07 GMT

Women in the Middle East need to fight for their right to freedom. There is no God anywhere that would force women to walk around in a shroud.

God created us all in his image. Why on earth would He then require us to cover that image up? This is a stupid law by small-minded ignorant men who are afraid to allow women to be equals.

I guess that says a lot about the inability of the men to be real men. But, I do not expect much more from those who are influenced by the evil that concocted 9/11.

Women - raise up and demand your freedom.

To veil or not to veil?

STRANGER — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 22:44:04 GMT

Arab males are so afraid that they will ose their women to another nationality male that will allow them to be themselves. This is not the middle ages, get wit the program and adapt to the modern society and let women live as they want to live. God- allah will be the one to judge each person on judgement day. Arab-muslims quit telling people how to live. You are not God-allah. Everyone has their own choice. Arab men are a bunch of homos anyways. Muslim women should all move to a country where they can still be muslim and live freely..like america, europe, UK, etc..Besides arab men don't know how to love and keep their women happy, they treat them like animals.

To veil or not to veil?

Casey — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 22:49:09 GMT

I'm glad that the writer mentioned the fact that some women DO believe in the cover and CHOOSE to wear it. We need to make sure that women are given the CHOICE to wear it if they'd like to and not to wear if they don't like to. What is happening now-a-days in some places is that the ones who want to wear it are being discriminated against and becoming the oppressed ones by society. Why can't we just be fair instead of going to one extreme or the other??

To veil or not to veil?

John Doe — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 23:10:12 GMT

Who would dare to respond to this article? That person would be killed as well. Kind and gentle religion? Humbug.

To veil or not to veil?

Doug Nistler, Pearland, Texas — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 00:12:33 GMT

I don't see what the problem is. People don't understand that we are dealing with a few in a culture that believes that suicide bombings and killing sheep and spreading their blood on accomplishments is the norm. Of course it's wrong, but when one is dealing wiht fanatics, it is impracticle to think you will ever changes them. I feel very sorry for the women that can't express their rights, but of course they have not rights.

To veil or not to veil?

Timothy, Covington, Texas — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 00:13:33 GMT

Here is a stupid solution to the veil or no veil dilemna...instead of anyone requiring a certain form of dress to comply with their "religious" training, why not simply decree that all folks who want to walk on the streets walk "buck naked" just like the creator brought you into this world. Think about it! No More IED's, NO need for search lines and gee, everyone will be dressed the same!

To veil or not to veil?

Proud Atheist — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 00:29:42 GMT

Religion in general, makes you do stupid things, whether it's Islamic or not. Covering your face with a hanky, now how stupid is that.....come on, get real!

To veil or not to veil?

Minneapolis, MN — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 00:35:38 GMT

It is terrible, but I am not surprised that you made groudless accusation with zionist's attitude. Just like you, zionist and their symphatizers tend to find flaws in Islam, but all praises be to Allah, Islam is clean for everything that you claim. Ans veil is obligatory for a believer women to wear in order to protect herself, reputation, dignity and beauty, but unlike "Munafiqiin" like you knows anything about it.

To veil or not to veil?

Lisa Higashiyama Ogden,Utah — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 00:44:35 GMT

im glad i live in America where my formothers already fought for my rights. I hate the veil. I see it as a form of control.

To veil or not to veil?

Mary Vaughan Didyoung — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 00:56:35 GMT

It is time for American women to wake up. Look at what is happening to their sisters of the world. American women are arrogrant and or stupid. They do not think this could happen to them. They are wrong, wrong, wrong.

To veil or not to veil?

B, Yelm, WA — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 01:10:35 GMT

This is what the Islamists want to achieve, reverse 1400 years and enslave all women (and men) to their cult. It is clear that these cultists do not respect women (for as they are told in the Quran, a woman is worth little but to please her husband).
There is a male mindset that is terrified of women, terrified that they are smarter and more sensuous than man. That man has really only one role, and that is to ensure the woman is constantly pregnant.
Women all over the world should rise up against these cultic oppressors and not perpetuate the foolishness that is spoken of in the Quran.
See how many times love is spoken of in the Quran and then see how many times love is spoken of in the Holy Bible.
These people are thugs and will continue to thrive until their slaves refuse to play their games. Al Queda is modified form of Nazism. Control and subjugation through brutality. Read the former Muslim's website: http://wwww.faithfreedom.org/ and get really acquainted with one possible world future.

To veil or not to veil?

Anonyma, USA — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 01:18:00 GMT

I am so sorry for women who must wear the veil. It is inconceivable to me that anyone would choose to do it.

To veil or not to veil?

john doe jacksonville fla — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 01:31:25 GMT

no veil let us know who we are seeing

To veil or not to veil?

mirza rivera — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 01:37:59 GMT

I am glad to be an american and enjoy freedoms denied to millions on this earth. I do have my religious beliefs, but consider it to be opressing when any one, government or otherwise try to force their beliefs upon us. In the begining GOD himself gave us the freedom to choose Him or go our way. NO ONE IN THIS WORLD, RELIGIOUS, GOVERNMETAL, OR POLITICAL, OR OTHER WISE HAS THE RIGHT TO TAKAKE AWAY OUR GOD GIVEN FREEDOMS. All those people, religious-extremist males, who think of themselves as the right hand of God will be DAMMED for the shame that they have brought to the TRUE GOD.

To veil or not to veil?

Roxy , Spokane, Wash. — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 02:20:21 GMT

The hijab or veil causes women in the middle east to lack vitamin and often results in broken hips because of lack of vitamen D and acceralation of ostoperosis. It is a surprise that the democrats led by Nancy Polosi in the Senate and appears Hillary for the nomination that they are turning their backs on so many millions of women and that it is George Bush they must look to for freedom and rights.

To veil or not to veil?

Abu Saleh, Berth, England — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 02:36:03 GMT

Well I am Islam and what should I say ???? Our religion teaches nothing but terrorism (Jihad) and about how to kill people Why are Muslims and only Muslim countries involved in all this? Now it's Pakistan asking for trouble. All because of the narrow mindedness and beaurocracy of their teachers hanging on to one book and finding different meanings to different verses, bad ones rather than good ones. Women should be educated that there is a world outside this shell of veil before it's too late. Pity our leaders, teachers and our religion !!

To veil or not to veil?

Tyrone Los Angels, California — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 02:37:37 GMT

It warms my heart that the people of America are standing up for womens rights in the middle east. Any where women have equal rights to vote and standing in the courts and to drive, be educated there is a peaceful society with social programs in the future even though we have had losses will make the world safer for all women and school girls, who would be left for slaughter if we pulled out. I am happy that America is standing up for all women regardless of color or faith.

To veil or not to veil?

Kim Speed, Montclair, NJ — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 02:39:53 GMT

When faced with survival, you do what is necessary. In certain areas in Iraq women must cover themselves in public in order to survive and be safe. They have the choice of playing it safe or being slaughtered. To me its a no brainer.

To veil or not to veil?

Eric, Troy, NY — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 02:48:28 GMT

What a wonderful religion.

To veil or not to veil?

steve ascension — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 02:58:40 GMT

It’s a sad fact that one part of humanity is being killed for just being women. Women have contributed so much to humanity. There is not one man alive who could compare to the design and beauty of women. Just imagine humanity with out a softer gentle side. When will these religious fanatics realize, that a world without women would be a terrible nightmare for humanity?

To veil or not to veil?

Gregory A. Young, Sterling Heights, Michigan — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 03:39:58 GMT

Frankly I think any religion who requires women of any age to wear a veil should make their men wear one also. Why should the rest of the world put up with small minded men who are uglier then their women.Any religion that is one sided because one sex, should wear something the other side refuses to do, is not only backwards and out of date with those of us who treat all women with respect regurdless of what religion or age group they may or may not be.Maybe what is needed is a religion that is controlled by women and not by men, then we can really watch the fur fly for a change.

To veil or not to veil?

CJ Springfield MO — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 04:11:24 GMT

I find your story here contradictory. You say you wouldn't change your life to appease the militia. Yet you admit to donning the gown and veil over your clothes because not doing so would be a 'death sentence', and embarrass your relative. Figure this out?

To veil or not to veil?

me — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 04:18:29 GMT

Do you only print comments that you agree with? Do you not print comments that are realistic of the situation but not 'politically correct'? I enterd a comment yesterday, but this site still lists 'no comments'. I guess it just goes to show you will only 'approve' comments that you agree with.

To veil or not to veil?

Rajiv, Dubai, United Arab Emirates — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 04:35:51 GMT

A veil reduces woman to an animal like state - remember horses and hawks being paraded with eye covers of different types. Further notice that a women's veil is black in color to attract maximum heat and the normal dress that a man wears is white. Evil? No, this is nothing. The heat "voluntarily" locks the women at home. The actual evil is programming young girls from child hood that covering yourselves like a black silkworm is what god likes. No wonder even some women stand up for the veil.

To veil or not to veil?

Daniel Boyle, Cartersville, Ga. — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 05:04:17 GMT

This story isn't about veils, it's not about rights, it's not even about women, and it sure as (harm) isn't about religion, it’s all about intimidation of another’s soul. To break the Will and Spirit of another person is the true dominance of one's Ignorance. This is Evil at its worst, banging up those with little or no defense. Extremists are nothing more than "COWARDS" hiding behind a woman’s skirt.

To veil or not to veil?

zebra — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 05:17:15 GMT

to veil or not to veil? Good question. I am not a muslim and so i cannot claim to understand the impact of growing up in that culture and religion to a woman. What i have heard from the religious women that wear the burka is that it is a means of 'protecting' a woman's beauty and preserving her 'modesty'. My objective opinion is that it is a means of controlling women, plain and simple. Both the willing and the unwilling. Again I see the situation objectively and so i understand if someone who has been indoctrinated in the culture/religion sees it differently

To veil or not to veil?

Ann, Cedar Park, Texas — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 05:21:00 GMT

I guess in a way, the journalist did change her life in order to appease militias. She wore the veil when she went to visit her aunt. Even the brave of our sisterhood must, in order to survive, become like the rest of us who are afraid.

To veil or not to veil?

anon — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 05:31:36 GMT

What I don't understand is this, There is a group of extremists that force people into doing what they think is right..yet, the group that they are tryin to force doesn't stand up..reveal those people that are doing the intimidating.
I was against the war from the start, and I'll tell ya why. For the last 100 years or so, different countries have tried to help those that are opressed, the problem is, the opresed don't get off their asses t help themselves. They don't turn in the a-holes that are doin this stuff, and even after we came in, got rid of sadam for them, they still refuse to help themselves. I can only say, if you want freedom..FIGHT for it..it isn't free.

To veil or not to veil?

H.K, La Crosse, WI — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 05:44:20 GMT

Remove the supression of women prescribed by Islam, give them equal rights with men, and there is not much left from this religion.
I know that's what Russians did during Soviet times, and Islam was castrated pretty quick over there.
Russians figured out the "power of veil" and what exactly stood behind it. That's one of the reasons why they've had "different brand of Islam," over there, that Westerners wonder about.

To veil or not to veil?

Darlene — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 06:13:10 GMT

I think this is terrable. Why should anyone have the right to enforce their barticular brand of religious views on another. I'm not Muslim but I know some Muslims and I know a little about Islam and the Qur'an. Its supposed to be a peacful religion, but these extremists distort it to make their acctions, like murder, seem ok in their minds. Purdah is a debated practice. Some women choose to wear a veil or other types of dress (Abaya, Jibab, Chador, Burqa, Duppata, Niqaab, headscaf, among other). These choices are not just based on religon but culture as well. There are a lot of interpretations ranging from modern western dress, modest dress perhaps with a loose headscarf (opaque or tied so some hair is visable), Only face hands and shoes showing, all the way to complete coverage of body and shape. However, these things are debated and a woman should be allowed to choose how she views these issues and wishes to cloth herself. Purdah was a cultural element before Islam, and the verse in the Qur'an which I understand to be the center of the use of the veil is 'when you speek to the prophets wife do so through a veil as it is pure for you and for her.' An instruction suggesting how to ensure modest action and proper deportment between men of the community and the wives of Muhammad. This verse is interpreded in several ways, some as a mere suggestion, some say it pertains only to the wives of high oficals thus more readily exposed to the public, some say it encourages all women to wear a veil, others say it requires the veil, or even some that say it mandates a woman be completly covered/hidden from public view. These arguements all come from Muslim communities. How than does this one group justify themselves as enforcing the right way and how can they justify murder? I do not understand though I pray for these women, that they may remain safe and may dress as they chose, be that strict Islamic dress or not, and show their faith as they see fit.

To veil or not to veil?

John, Seattle, WA — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 07:55:04 GMT

Here we are. This is the fruit of democracy we've invested into. It is the result worthy to invest over 1 trillion our tax dolars, over 3000 of our sons been kiled, tens of thousands wounded, plus millions of displaced and killed Irakis.
That bastard Sadam is no match...
-
Let's praise our strategists - give them a raise...from our tax dollars. And it will become worse...

To veil or not to veil?

tara rasheed baghdad iraq — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 09:38:54 GMT

islam was mutilated by extremists ,they are the destructive force to kill islam ,all muslims refused their idiology & wish they are stopped but since they hide behind their weapons every body avoid them
we need to take action immediatly to save the spirit of islam

To veil or not to veil?

none — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 10:52:23 GMT

I don't believe what the western media says, specially about Islam. I am curious why does the
author use the words inshALLAH when she is obviously
going against the guidance from ALLAH. One only has to look at the current social situation in the west to relaize the wisdom of the veil (that is from pornography, homosexuality, single motherhood, suicide rates...).

Anyone who wants to clarify the true message of Islam is labled a fanatic, undoubtly by open minded people like the media and likes of this author).
nameless.

To veil or not to veil?

Julie baghdad iraq — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 10:59:55 GMT

I too live in Baghdad,and am also a veil wearer but by choice.I am the mother of teenage daughters who also wear the veil again by their choice not ours.But i feel glad they do as i feel they are not targeted and dont stand out beacuse of the way they look.That makes them safer i hope.

To veil or not to veil?

Kir Kehcsam, Los Angeles, Californis — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 13:58:57 GMT

Extremists on both sides of any issue make it hard for most people.

To veil or not to veil?

Sohawa Khan — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 14:00:14 GMT

It is simply best way to use veil for all woman, wether Muslims of Kafirs. Muslim will enjoy dual reward; one in this world and the other in heaven. Kafir will enjoy only one reward. Crime rate will reduced considerably if veil implemented. However terrorists do not want this beatiful law. I will be very much safe in the community where it is observed religiously and in positive sence. Poor countries must think over it so that they save some money for feeding hungry people. Woman's right to survive more safe must be ensured at all cost. Veil protects even males against state's terrorism. Religion basically provides pious thinking attitude towards all human race but anti religion people easily becomes brutals to save their interests. One must think wisely. Indoor beautification is not forbidden anywhere! One should not offer cruel attack on a beautiful lady! Peace is must for everybody. Strong countries are denying peace to poors. Peace loving ideas must be promoted worldwide.

To veil or not to veil?

Tony Espo — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 14:12:14 GMT

I think what hey do with veils and covering themselves is a little to exstream, but on the other hand look at where we are here in the United States. It slowly crept up on us since the day of the cowboys and civil war time that now the young girls are wearing thing that are beyond comprehension. Yes, us men like to look at them but I guess we are all dogs anyway. Here in America and also in some other parts of the world we have lost morality and disipline and respect because of all the liberals who think that there is nothing wrong with it. I feel that a rotten apple in a barrol can cause more apples to rot. Where is the respect and moral that once thrived here in America?
There still is plenty of people in this country who have self respect but I see it slowly desappearing THANKS TO THE HOLLIWOOD PIMPS and actresses and actors that would do anything for grorry and money. Do they have any sense of what their families and children think when they see their Moms, Dads and others whom they look up to act out the explicit sex scenes or violent seens in the movies that they perform in?? I for one am inbarassed.
I think knowing where this country has gone with morrals has made the people in the middle east want to put a stop on this trend before it gets to where we are today. A lot of the kids in this country look and dress like the clowns I used to see in the circus and parents don't have any control over their children.
To the Middle east places they think this is a NIGHTMARE.
THANK YOU.
TONY

To veil or not to veil?

majid ,newark,nj — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 14:24:30 GMT

it is easy to talk and write anything nowdays but non are true till we see by our eyes

To veil or not to veil?

Donna Atkinson, Miami, FL — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 14:56:33 GMT

It is a sign of how little we think about women in the United States, that nobody seems outraged enough to protest such abusive treatment of women in Islamic countries. We are are all my sisters that defiently burned their bras? We are all my sisters that fought for equal pay and equal rights? Why is no one speaking up from the women's community? Why is no one speaking up from the Muslim community?

To veil or not to veil?

Mariem Blanchard — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 14:59:48 GMT

assalam alaykum
greetings and peace

This religion Islam is peace and I understand their need to reinforce the laws of Allah which means GOD!

I converted to islam because of 52 years of oppression caused to me by christians, even my caucasian husband of Quebec Canada beat me 8 years and was justified by the christian religion, and people look to point their nose at Islam to excuse themselves. We do not see what goes on behind hidden doors or pews..I saw firsthand hell from so many christians I lost count, but do not believe me, on judgement day God will show all who i am and was, and how these people are cold & serving themselves!
The hidden sins in churches are disgusting, there is no real honor or Holy Fear of God so bravo to Muslims who take a stand for God and ask the rebellious to obey the laws of our Most Holy & Gracious Lord Allah.
God honors ALL who worship HIM! now give me a break and go find a mirror people for the sake of love- real love!
(I am so blessed in Islam, wearing an Hijab for GOD) This people are so good to me, the men look out for their wives, and men care for them, honor their women as for Allah and they too must obey strict rules but we are all so happy and at peace inside. I am sad to see the spirit of man who hates laws, rebellion is more and more, the heart becomes numb to our true Lord in Paradise who did indeed send Muhammed the prophet, I will not deal in what else is truth or not, because when I die, I know Allah Himself will show my true heart.

I built sites for christians, I saw such abuse that only by the mercies of Allah I am alive, InshaAllah i shall now speak for a people of peace and love, true devotions, true honor to God in prayers, worship, praise, dedication, obediance, etc! In every religion are extremists and go back and look for your own mirror, quit focusing on the people, the obvious and look at the silent, whispering voice upon the winds of God the Creator!
Wassalam alaykum
Mariem
November 18th-2007

To veil or not to veil?

Jay S, St. Louis, MO — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 15:18:34 GMT

Does it say anywhere in the Koran that women have to wear the veil?

To veil or not to veil?

noyb — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 15:21:09 GMT

ha,! boy i sure love my country ....good old USA.... where i can wear whatever i want !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and not cover from head to toe!!

To veil or not to veil?

Cathy Summers Denver, Colorado — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 15:31:34 GMT

If the response you seek is in answer to your title, then I would have to, because of the Times we are passing through, "Veil". But for a fifth reason:few deserve to behold the Beauty of Iraqi women!

It is a time to be safe-and to stay alive for the Children-and the Hope of a better tommorrow, without guns and bombs overhead.

It is my understanding the Veil is worn as an honor, not a punishment:though, as an American woman (though a Traditionalist) I admit that to be Required to wear a Veil would not sit well with me, or many of us. Yet, as I have been hoping to make Pilgrimage at some point in my life, I have gathered Veils to bring and wear while in the Holy Lands, in due respect.

There is an old adage:Better to live today, to fight tomorrow...I hope you will be safe as well! We need more journalists to tell us what they see-from all sides. Your refusal to wear the Veil may not be the Best possible way to use your fighting spirit and good intentions, at this time, is all I am saying. No disrespect intended-only a concern for your safety...and perhaps I think not many deserve to see your Beauty!

Thank you for alerting us to these war crimes against Women as signaled out for "trivial" crimes, as most of the world will see dying for wearing makeup or not wearing a Veil. I did not know this was happening. Now I can write afew letters, tell afew others, who will do the same.

Wishing you, the Women &Children of Iraq and the Whole Lands Peace soon-
Cathy Summers, Denver, Colorado

To veil or not to veil?

betty, new port richey, fl — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 15:57:32 GMT

i have been told by muslim women that wearing the headscarf is not written in the Koran, but instead it is a MAN made religious law. just another way to control women

To veil or not to veil?

Charlie — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 16:21:49 GMT

The trouble is with Islam and the literal interpretation of an ancient codex. While some of the rules are practical and still relavent, others are sorely outdated and hostile to the changes that will eventually be necessary. Islam needs a touch of secular liberalism, or it will continue to sink into hostile religious mire when challenged with the rest of the world. A reformer or many may be required here. Turkey is a leader by example. No need to abandon Islam, just reform it.

To veil or not to veil?

Peter James Dunkerley — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 16:39:04 GMT

no one should be able to define another human being. the pursuit of life liberty and happiness is an idividual journey, to be shared for sure, yet ultimately taken person by person...
man. woman. human. we are so small a part of the greater whole that we cannot even begin to imagine the grand scope of all that IS. when we journey within, thats when just enough of an answer comes, to keep us doing the right thing for the right reasons. we are never given the whole answer, true enlightenment is at such a scale as would drive our feeble minds insane...
so wear them if you want, dont wear them if you chose not to. and most importantly, keep heralding that choice is the responsibility of the individual.

To veil or not to veil?

Michael S. Bennett — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 16:40:55 GMT

In one's home, mosque, or other private place - ok! On American streets or other public places - NO!! In their own countries it is their right and, if any, their problem. Muslims need to wake up and realize the woman is equal in the eyes of GOD. Education is the only enemy of ignorance and intolerance. MSB

To veil or not to veil?

mcb_inc@yahoo.com — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 16:54:45 GMT

Isn't it amazing that women are made to restrain thier actions over a book that a man wrote?

To veil or not to veil?

Ken Langley — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 16:58:32 GMT

All the Brits that marched to 'get British troops out of Iraq' should be ashamed of themselves. The everday citizen (especially women and children) need our help. The Islamic lunatics that want to return the world to the 7th Century need to be eliminated at all costs.

To veil or not to veil?

Sun, 18 Nov 2007 17:21:55 GMT

I am a devout Muslim by choice and conviction. It is my considered opinion and conviction that in common with many other laws relating to women, veiling or not veiling is nothing to do with Islam. This type of draconian laws are carry over and amalgamation from the pre-Islamic civilizations such as Roman, Persian, Indian, etc. Compare the socalled Islamic veil with the dress code of Roman Catholic nuns, particularly that was in vouge several decadesc ag0. If that dress has anything to do with piousnes, then Roman Catholics seem to divide the women in two categories, pios and non pious. Nothing like that exists in the Qur'anic teachings. You can call veil as Muslim cultural practice, that has continuity with the cultural practices of ancient civilizations. The Qur'an does ask the Muslim Women to cover their beasts when they step out of their homes. Although it needs researh, I presume and believe that many women in the time of prophet of Islam, went out bare breasted. Many did not have clothes to fully cover their bodies. All modern day women with under shirt and blouse more than enough meet the said requirement to cover their breasts, except those who purposely take pride in thier big boobs, enhanced or otherwise, and purposely expose them.

As a child I loved and sucked the breasts of my mother; As an adult I love and suck the breasts of my wife. Although, forbidden in the Qur'an my human tendency is to stare at, enjoy, feel aroused by looking at the brasts of other women. But at the same time, I hate the other men to stare at, enjoy, and get aroused by looking the breasts of my mother, or wife, etc. Therein lies my hypocracy, and most likely yours too.

Muslim veil as a a statement of political independence is yet another aspect; In that sense it is an honor and commitment to a noble cause, that all faiths enjoin; Freewill, independence, and honor of being a part of freedom movement. This type of symbol, in stead of a veil, could be baring everything that men and women are graced with. The American and European women just did that in sixties and onwards, and I feel obliged to them. If we can maintain our freewill, libety, and freedom with grace and responsibility, that has more virtue than veiled or being naked. I personaaly prefer the middle path; the balance I see in courts of justice. So it is all verbose, yet it makes sense.

To veil or not to veil?

Derek Ratcliff, Noblesville, IN — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 18:00:23 GMT

I'm a 39 yr old married father of 2 girls, so it shouldn't come as a surprise that I do support women's rights. I don't think that women's rights are an issue to be considered in Iraq at the moment. The US still is dealing with equal rights issues and we live in a free society. Until peace and order and a gov't. can be established, no one will have any rights in Iraq. If these are the desired goals of the people of Iraq, they should have ran Suddam out way before Bush decided it was his responsibility to do so.

To veil or not to veil?

Chris ,Ninneapolis, MN — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 18:01:22 GMT

Please enlighten me where it say's in the Koran, that woman are to be treated like Garbage? Garbage is hidden (Veiled), but a woman? How woman are treated in Muslim Countries is dispicable.We are living human beings, with feelings, desires, and most of all, we bear your children, if you don't have us, you would perish.Shame on the men who think woman are possessions.We all have to stand before our God ( Allah) and be judged, and if muslim males think they will be rewarded for their ignorance, they should think twice.

To veil or not to veil?

Dana Tyryfter, San Francisco, CA — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 18:06:40 GMT

I'm not going to argue with another woman's religious belief or traditions. If one chooses to wear the veil (or more) then that is her choice.

However, in a land where women were once able to make their choice freely to some extent, it is appalling that their choice is being taken from them.

What would be the purpose of imposing extreme religious code in a place where it didn't exist in recent years? Could it be that the intention is to make women invisible (or also known as having "modesty"?) in society. Will that not lead to the disappearence of women in the workplace? In healthcare? In government? In education?

Once you tell someone to make their presence unknown, are you not really forcing them to marginalize themselves to some extent, if not completely, from society and restrict competition, self-development and thus also meaningful participation within a culture's growth and success?

Traditional dress or the act of wearing a veil should be a person's choice. But if one tells another to do so, you are communicating that no one wants to see you -- especially if the stick of injury or death is waged in your face. And that is wrong.

To veil or not to veil?

paul, miami florida — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 18:16:36 GMT

Amazing that in this modern age such things are happening. Barbaric and incomprehensible. This is the true meaning of the Tyranny of Religion. A society that abuses 1/2 of its population will not survive in the long run.

To veil or not to veil?

Bonnie Mitchell UK — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 18:23:22 GMT

I am increasingly concerned by the stories I hear coming out of Muslim controlled parts of the world relating to issues like freedom of speech & action, from enforced veil wearing to the torture & execution of Christians.
I live in a town in the UK where, as Christians, we have supported local Muslim groups' right to worship according to their own beliefs. It is worrying that people such as Iraqis expect us to fight & die for them but do not permit the freedoms our soldiers believe they are fighting for.
I have always said that we did not belong in Iraq, nor Bosnia, nor Afghanistan. They are not democracies & have no will to be, we just help them to trade in their dictatorships. It's time we stopped.

To veil or not to veil?

victoria Ann — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 18:24:32 GMT

To rule over someone using terror tactics,murder ,torture etc is pure evil.The religious extremists are just that.They are hurting the muslim religion with thier actions.If a woman wants to wear a veil its her choice,but it should be her own free will.It has no meaning if you have to wear it in fear for your life.Many other religions also treat women as second class citizens .Time to wake up...

To veil or not to veil?

Duane Young jr. scranton pa. 18504 — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 18:27:53 GMT

the changes made by all religous orders no matter which ones have not read the scriptures correctly as the ten commandments absolutly forbids murder in any form. gods made it clear follow his rules explicitly . Only the ten commandments are to be followed gods words not mans Wake UP all you religous leaders of all countries . no further comments needed gods word is right read your bibles not spin offs

To veil or not to veil?

Mercedes Ibarra, Mexico — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 18:43:55 GMT

It's apalling to me that even in this year with all the technology and medical advances the brain of a male can be so obtuse.But then again if it doesn't botter someone's economy, it's not worth lookin into it is it? After all it's just cultural, religious beliefs. NO IT IS NOT!!! This oppresion by men toward women is about FEAR. These men fear women, the women in their lives, the women they see and don't even know.All this little arrangment is so nice a nice little dictator in every single house or even many because every male of any age is considered above even the oldest woman in the house, talk about evolution, it's absolutly the opposite.When will the world goverments acknowledge this problem, this tragedy for what it is? It's so sickening.They use veils there but everywhere the oppresion is present, in words, in actions, SO SAD. Religion... God save us from religion.

To veil or not to veil?

Elizabeth Book, Ormond Beach, Florida — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 18:56:07 GMT

My God, the more I hear of these Islamic extremists, the more I hold them in contempt! They are merciless dogs when it comes to the treatment of women. They would even go so far as to visciously remove the genitals of millions of blossoming young girls, each year, in order to decrease any sexual desires they may have. Some 6 million of these little girls die worldwide each year due to this horrific procedure called female circumsion.
I thank God every day of my life that I was born in the U.S.A. My God is an all loving, all merciful God that recognizes women as the very vessels of life on Earth. I am blessed to be able to believe and worship as my soul dictates through the protections of the United States Constitution. We (women)still fight for equality in the Unites States, but at least we are given the opportunity to fight for this, without the fear of death or dimemberment.
If only I could bring you all here and offer you the comfort of protection from these radical extremists. I cannot. But I will remind you that you are most important to the existence of mankind on Earth.
I know what they fear, these haters of women. They fear that to release the true beauty of your womanhood and humanity just might bring them to their knees. Theirs' is the cowards way. Domestic violence in any form is repugnant.

Stay strong. You are in my heart.

Women's Rights Activist, U.S.A., Elizabeth Book

To veil or not to veil?

red baron — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 19:21:23 GMT

one only had to look at the "men" in this story to get a clear picture of what is really going on. they are weak, immoral,have not control and mostly cowards. it doesn't take much to put women down. i think they are afraid of women.

To veil or not to veil?

Neil Mora, New York, NY — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 19:29:04 GMT

We should tell this story to those republicans who think we are making progress in Iraq. When we see here disgusting adds on TV by republicans and neocon groups telling how great Iraq is and how we brought Democracy to Iraq someone needs to counter with an add with this story too. At the time of Sadam The women in Iraq had much more freedom than now. Now we turned Iraq like our "good friend" Iran style. By the way we blame Iran for a lot of things but we forget that the U.Spuppet Government in Iraq prefer the Iran style than ours. The U.S. wants to attack Iran but I think they should atack first the Malik Government. They are very friends with Iran the president of Iraq goes to Teehran and kisse and hug Ahmadinejah and we hate Iran? What is the point?

To veil or not to veil?

Michele LA, Palm Coast, FL — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 20:14:10 GMT

When are women going to wake up and demand that men worldwide stop treating women like animals and/or property? Why has the male population of the free world not also shown outrage at this practice and demanded that the evil sadists who coerce women into subservience in any form desist immediately? Better yet these men (pigs) who feel it's their God-given right to abuse/mistreat/torture women should be jailed indefinitely and forced into subservience themselves. Why on earth are we in the west putting up with Islam in any shape or form? This is third-world mentality promoting legitimization of mistreatment of women worldwide. This garbage should absolutely be outlawed everywhere in modern day society. I am sick and tired of "politically correct." The days of debate on the subject are long over. What's wrong is wrong ... there is no gray area here. The civilized societies on the planet MUST make it a priority NOW to address this issue once and for all. Outlaw Islam and punish those who practice it and promote it.

To veil or not to veil?

MRoethle, Willcox,Az — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 20:27:27 GMT

Oh how we take our liberties for granted. Did the BBC misspell 'Sadrists'? I am truly appalled at the conditions these women face over there and for one, love to look upon our beautiful creatures of God in our land.

To veil or not to veil?

Ike Zubert — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 20:29:14 GMT

The faith of Islam does not in any manner "impose", Islam propagates a given life style and a given code of life, however it does not forcefully impose the rulings or requires the various codes be followed by the people living in a territory ruled by Islamic Principles.
The basic reason for the extent of covering by women is only to protect the preciousness of females like one protects their precious belongings such as jewelry & diamonds. Appropriately covering is not mean to imply locking up the women, while "veil" itself is an even higher level of covering adopted by those who understand it and reflects a higher degree of piety on one's part while the prescribed covering of a woman is limited to wearing a dress that is comfortably lose fitting so as not to describe the figure of a lady, covering upto the wrists and to the ankles, then covering the head so that the hair, ears neckline and cleavage is not visible.
The "veil" or veiling of face is a tradition adopted by people of certain regions and are not a mandatory part of covering prescribed for the women.
No one bears the right to impose this on the women, and Islam being a faith of common logical understanding would be followed by the faithful in it's true spirits.
Like the verse from Quran states that "la ikraha fi'deen" i.e. there is no compulsion in religion.
Similarly Islam as a faith cannot be imposed upon unfaithful individuals or followers of another faith than Islam, though it is incumbent on all Muslims to tell others about Islam and then its upto them if they find it suitable for themselves, it is only dependant upon one's being blessed by the vision to see the faith of Islam with it's true and purest spirits that are logical & scientific in their nature and then to follow or not to follow comes from within each individual.
May the Almighty bless us all humans the ability to have an insight of the true values of the faith of Islam & to practice those in their true spirit, amen.

To veil or not to veil?

Deb , Tampa, FL — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 20:32:29 GMT

Do what you need to do to stay alive. Once that's secure, struggle peacefully towards whatever your heart tells you is correct.

To veil or not to veil?

Patricia Sautner, North Carolina — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 21:03:26 GMT

I wish the Islamic men had some rules thrown on them also. I don't think they'd like it too much. A double standard, if you ask me. I married my husband because he said, "Women are wisdom." I wouldn't have married him if he had little respect for women.

To veil or not to veil?

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 21:23:31 GMT

Islamic law in Baghdad yes we talking about iraq an islamic country wat can i say another country lost its lifestyle and culture because because of envy 4 da west only one of many. some people is trying to prevent it while others do watever it takes to copy the west if that makes sence to youll

To veil or not to veil?

Kamal, Edmonton, Canada — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 21:44:04 GMT

I think these are all lies. There is no one who could force women to cover their face or put on veils. I am from Saudi Arabia, the extremist in the eyes of the west and others, and from the holy city of Makkah. Over there and inside the holy masjid you see women putting hijab only with their faces uncovered, and no body can force them. I guess you can see that on the satellite channel of Saudi Arabia. So stop it because it is a disgusting lie. Islam for all.

To veil or not to veil?

AK, Bronx NY — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 21:58:07 GMT

This is a total shame! Its very sad to hear people killed in this manner This is totally against the teachings of Islam. Those extremists are working against what the peaceful religon of Islam has taught.

To veil or not to veil?

Debra Houston Texas — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 22:20:01 GMT

Are these the choices want want women to make in the U.S. and other countries with growing ultra conservative Muslim populations?

To veil or not to veil?

Muslimah, Columbus, Ohio — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 22:40:01 GMT

I am a 18 year old american muslim. I wear an outergarment and cover my face . I disagree with people killing other people because of not wearing veil etc. because that is not in Islam. Maybe it's remnant of cultural stuff as other people do bring their own cultures into Islam and do unislamic things. But covering your head is part of Islam. Covering your face is optional. The best way for injustice and bad stuff to stop happening is for the muslims to learn their religion properly, then they wouldn't be doing that kind of stuff.

To veil or not to veil?

Dave, Hartford, ct — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 22:45:57 GMT

I am still waiting for a Muslim to explain to me why we should NOT consider Islam to be a violent religion. I see nothing but violence. Show me something else.

To veil or not to veil?

peter krahn, Yuma AZ — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 22:51:38 GMT

Having lived in the Middle East for sometime there is yet another cultural perspective regarding female veiling. In some fundamentalist Islamic societies an unveiled female is deliberately exposing her natural beauty to males other than her immediate family. It is expected that men in this society will be tempted and are usually not expected to curb their natural impulse or actions arising out of their instinctive drives and temptations. Veiling thus is for the women's protection against unwanted advances or molestation.

To veil or not to veil?

Umm Hussain, NYC — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 22:59:05 GMT

It is my sincerest hope that all who read the blog and those who are victims become familiar with the Quranic reference that "There is no compulsion in religion" and that our beloved Prophet has said "Oppression is worse than murder." As usual, women's freedom has become the latest victim of the war in Iraq and an end to violence appears to be a footnote.

To veil or not to veil?

oea, Tampa, FL — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 23:02:16 GMT

That tells you the Muslim world is not yet ready for democracy.
They need secular tyrants, dictatorships, strong men, etc.
We removed Saddam and you see what we have got.
We are asking Pakistan's president for democratic elections, a very bad idea, the Taliban sympathizers will take over, just as Hamas did in Palestine.

To veil or not to veil?

Charline, Tulsa, OK — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 23:22:01 GMT

I believe that much of the more strict Islamist countries are not ready for removal of the veil. I realize as women many of you are ready to make a statement, but I do not believe any form of harm you might encounter is worth that lightweight piece of cloth. Make a difference by bringing up your children
to respect women and women and children's rights. Even in the West those changes took 200 years to accomplish and there are still discrepencies. I wish you well.

To veil or not to veil?

Mariam, Florida — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 23:25:26 GMT

As an American woman whom was a Christian for over 25 years I completely understand her train of though as an independent woman trying to follow her own path. I too went her way, and in my own (very different) way still continue to do so. I converted to Islam (by my own volition, due to my personal beliefs) just before my 26th birthday, and a few weeks after my wedding to an Arabic Muslim. For those who deny there is ANY such validity to the ongoing increase of westernization to the world, this blog should serve to quelch those denials. I'm very certain this woman (as a Muslim, she praises Allah (SWT))understands the reasons behind the Islamic veil, and realize that the purpose of "hijab" (the act of covering one's body from public view) IS NOT to force suboordination upon women, nor push them into the state of a second class citizen. Unfortunaltely most of the world coorelates the manner in which pious Muslim women dress to their social status. And with all of the media attention suggesting such without enough evidence being brought forth to the opposite, I don't blame them. But since becoming a Muslima myself, and finding out the TRUE reason behind the veil (which actually suprised me (knowing only what the media reported about it), and made me that much more proud to be a Muslima). The real reason behind the veil is not to punish a woman, but instead to protect her. The Holy Quran itself states that a female believer should cover herself and show modesty, rather than advertise what Allah (SWT) has given her to men, most likely resulting in acts of prostitution, sexual advances, and promiscuity. Now I know what you are thinking. Not ALL forbidden acts of sex are physical. In fact in Islam, even the meer act of invoking a sexually related thought or idea in a man because of what you you are dressed in is forbidden. A female Muslim can be considered to have "lost her virginity" if a man even thinks she is sexy, or has impure thoughts about her, and is not her husband! We westerners can only think to shake our heads and wonder what possibly could be so sexy about a bare shoulder, ankle, or even HAIR?! Believe it or not different parts of the world have VERY different ideas about what is considered sexy! Just pick up any National Geographic magazine. Those pictures of women you see (and yes those hideously tatooed humans with sticks and bones protruding from their nose, lips, and ears are women!) are considered the most beautiful and wealthy in their villiage or rather tribe! In Islam a woman is considered not as a second class citizen whos primary reason for living is to stay in the kitchen and home to raise the children and serve her husbands every need. Instead she is considered a vessel of beauty, intelligence, innocence, and grace. And according to the Quran, it is considered an honor for a man to be able to taste the sweetness that is everything which embodies a woman as her husband. An honor which is by law both in religion and by the state enforced. I cover myself though my husband and I still live in America. My husband doesn't care if I cover myself or not. He just will not allow me to go outside wearing the clothing (or lack there of) which I wear only around him. Tops that bare my stomach and chest which I parade around the house in all of the time, as well as the tiny cotton gym shorts I wore in high school as a cheerleader and a member of the dance-drill team. To make things a bit more tricky on my part of trying to dress modestly in public, I actually have maintained my overall physique from my high school days almost ten years later. Still wearing a size 0-1 it's not easy to find modest clothes that fit me in Islamic catalogs! So I go around wearing my husbands long sleeved shirts which are too small, or I've accidently shrunk when the dryer busted, and avoid my old skin tight fashions which I once happily donned in public. Unlike many women whom cannot fathom my choice in changing everything about my life, I'm perfectly comfortable, and actually have never been happier or more confident! I don't want to wear that little next to nothing stuff anymore! I'm married, why would I want to show it to anyone but my husband?!

To veil or not to veil?

mohamed the monarch — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 23:52:26 GMT

this is a very touchy topic I will have to admitt. firstly I have suffiecent knowledge to make an opionated statement. I do sympathyse with the author of this article. in fact it is absurd what these people are doing. there is nothing in the quran or the teaching of the prophet that says anything about banning makeup, or not wearing a viel. these things are not encouraged but they are not haram. otherwise known as optional.!!! having said that I would like to emphasize the islamic dress code for all to know. attire must conform to two laws. firstly it must not be revealing (for common decency) secondly it must not be tight clothing which outline the curves. this is for both males and females.!!!!!! who is to argue with me??? I have memorised the quran at an early age, and the teaching of the prophet. I used to preach too. these are the laws, and anything else is a cultural fabrication, and personal ignorance. look at other countries, like egypt for example. they dont have to wear a veil if they dont want to, and that is the right thing to do. it should be held to personal preference. for the ignorant ones, I say read, read and read.

To veil or not to veil?

Georgia Peach, Newport, Vermont — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:09:37 GMT

There are a lot of things wrong with this country, but, as a woman, I am so so grateful that we have the right to work where we want, the right to dress how we like, and all the other inalienable rights given to us in our Constitution. I cannot imagine being persecuted and controlled the way these Middle Eastern women are today. When I think of their plight, all I can feel is a sense of helpless rage, because I know that I can do nothing to help bring about change in those countries. God Bless the USA!

To veil or not to veil?

anonymous — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:30:58 GMT

Everyone makes the veil out to be some object that oppresses muslim ladies. It is nothing like that the islamic religon symbolizes it as modesty. These so called EXTREMEST are not basing anything on the islamic religion which is a beautiful thing. THey are all about CULTURE, there taking it to a whole other level that is not approved by the islamic religion. Another comparision would be why is that the christian nun that also wears something similar to the veil as viewed as staying faithful and muslim ladies are oppressed. My advice would be if someone doesnt understand what the veil represents then stop and ask someone thats wearing it.I personally would hope someone would.

To veil or not to veil?

michael sartor, spencer, wv — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:36:44 GMT

Being from WV, as Hillbilly as we are, I just cannot understand it. It has to come from how children are raised.(guess).

Even in lower educated areas, women still control things, even tho' it may not show in public.

I has to even out eventually in the world, or we will not make it when the aliens arrive and look us over.
That's my belief.....

Mike Sartor Sr
Cyborg

To veil or not to veil?

Deborah Brooks, Detroit, Michigan — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:46:07 GMT

After losing over 3000 of our troops so they can be
free, those who go after women over how they are
dressed ought to be arrested and put into Abu Gray
Prison for life or worse. IF a local woman chooses
to obey Islamic law, it is HER choice, not that
of a terrorist, the same people who smashed
OUR planes into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon.

To veil or not to veil?

TERRY C...KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 01:14:53 GMT

For God's sake...Allah, Yahwah...whoever the spirtual leader we hold near and dear.....this is such an archiac and insulting outrage to women...we are NOT secondary in any way...we give birth to YOUR (Men's) offspring...WITHOUT us...MEN would not even be here....we, as women could and would and maybe should kill off all of our male children...then what would happen in the Islam world....
GET A GRIP.....ISLAMICS....Mohammad and Allah are GOOD, not evil...your obvious MISINTERPRETATION of their holy word leaves me void and empty...just like you've done for years...RISE UP..WOMEN OF ISLAM...there are more of you than men.....take your rightful stand....and be strong...unfortunately, your men only understand violence and war....if you will not torture or shoot your dear husbands...run..escape...do NOT accept the old ways...your God and your Prophets did NOT mean that your men are superior...WE, WOMEN ARE SUPERIOR...because we are IN CONTROL OF OUR BODIES...WHO LIVES AND WHO DIES FOR OUR FUTURE IS UP TO US....WISE UP NOW, OUR SISTERS IN FREEDOM, OR ELSE, YOU ARE DOOMED TO LIVE UNDER THE HAND OF YOUR WRONGFUL HUSBAND...

To veil or not to veil?

Janine, Shelter ISland, NY — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 01:36:31 GMT

Anyone interested in another viewpoint should read the book "Reading Lolita in Tehran"

To veil or not to veil?

fallguy, MI — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 02:02:30 GMT

Liberty, Equality, Justice, Security . . . Those words could be found on the Great Seal of the CPA. We had a chance, even if a small one, to turn that motto into reality until that old nation killer, "Political Expediency" turned us around 180 degrees. As such, we struck out on all counts. Over three years later and I'm still enraged. May those Iraqi's who really believed in us; please forgive us. Because I'm not sure if God ever will.

fallguy
rvn 66/67
oif 03/04

To veil or not to veil?

Flash McGruder, Richmond, Virginia — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 02:51:59 GMT

The conservative Islamists are using God to justify un-Godly behavior and thinking. Does God hide the blossoms of flowers or cover the cherry tree in the spring? If women should be veiled, men should also be veiled. Beards are insufficient

To veil or not to veil?

Florida, USA — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 02:58:00 GMT

While I decry the use of violence against women in any society, I wonder if having the strength of your convictions concerning not wearing the veil is the wisest course of action.

Also, as a journalist, wouldn't wearing the full coverings prescribed by some interpreations of the Quran give you an opportunity to report significant happenings in areas that are considered dangerous to women not dressed appropriately?

Please don't get me wrong - my wife and I lived in Riyadh for many years and were constantly under fire from the Mutawah - religious authorities - who attempted to enforce a strict Islamic dress code on Western women, despite the guidelines posted by our embassy staff. So I can only imagine how much more dangerous it is in Baghdad.

God bless you and keep you.

To veil or not to veil?

Ad — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 03:01:04 GMT

Inshallah, may these chauvinist pigs wake up and understood that a woman is worth equal in voice not half and and stop shoving their narrow minded interpretation of the koran. Who's stupid idea is it that a woman has to produce 4 witnesses in a rape ?? A frog in a well can't see as much as frog in the open field

To veil or not to veil?

mike, san diego, ca — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 03:20:07 GMT

She says that she won't change to appease the militia but she wore the veil to vist her aunt. She did mention that it was partly to protect her aunt but she also said it would be a death sentence to enter the area w/o the veil. Sounds like she appeased the oppresor to me.

To veil or not to veil?

Gordana Nikolich - Hobart, IN — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 03:56:06 GMT

Good for you.. Every woman on this earth should have the exact rights that every man has, regardless of religion. It's a well known fact that women have always been the main force in a family. It could be the grandmother, mother, sister, aunt, niece. What we wear on the outside has nothing to do with who we are inside. I hope the next generation is a little more broad minded because I worry about tommorrow's youth and I applaud you. I am fortunate to live in a country where I choose my route in life. (Inshallah)

To veil or not to veil?

Patricia A. Holmes — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 04:12:45 GMT

I simply do not understand how women can tolerate this lack of basic freedoms. Surely our Muslim sisters are not that far behind the world in their quest for becoming members of the human race. It is very difficult for the Western world to grasp the unsophisticated, "dark ages" side of this religion.

To veil or not to veil?

Ali, New York — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 04:52:04 GMT

It still amazes me everytime I read a story like this one that forces women to adopt a "neutered" lifestyle just to appease the males in their lives. It is inherent in every human to discover life- and not necessarily through a gauzy window that is restricted at the whim of male who has the ego strength of an ant, but unfortunately the power. I'd love to impose restrictions on them, say, they have to cover from head to foot, sit in the back, get slapped around, have no opinion and be ordered about by an idiot, like them.

To veil or not to veil?

Senthil Kumaraan, Selangor, Malaysia — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 04:57:03 GMT

I believe that the oppression going on against women in Iraq and throughout the world in general should be stopped immediately. Living in a country where inequality, on a small scale, still exists between man and woman, I think that it is very disheartening to realize that even in the age where civilization is thought to be at its highest point, mankind can still go about practicing barbaric and irrational acts such as the murder and torture of women whose only crime was to dress the way they liked. My question is, where is the crime in that? And if indeed women are meant to be tortured or killed or oppressed, why then does religiion compel us to promote equality and justice? Won't it then sound a little hypocritical? I believe that action needs to be taken and it should be taken now. Gone must be the days where gross inequality exist between male and female. It is time we abandoned our physical differences and come together as one whole working unit which we can all benefit from.

To veil or not to veil?

David Powell, Ocean City NJ — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 05:35:26 GMT

That is insane. A choice is one thing but forcing it on people is totally oppresive. I wish this lady and the rest of the people over there (especially the women and kids) the best and will pray for them.

To veil or not to veil?

Sarah, Stockbridge — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 06:10:30 GMT

It is a shame that "dress modestly" can mean so many things. What is happening to your aunt and many women like her is cruel. I can't imagine how I'd fare in a patriarchal society like that. I'm a firm believer in 'choice'. It's your body, do what you will with it. I understand the women who find it religiously freeing. I understand the women who want a little more Western influence in their garb. After all, mini-skirts and pants pretty much rock. I almost hate to admit it, but I also understand the extremists' point of view. (That does not mean I agree with it in any way whatsoever!)I suppose they're afraid of losing their grip on morality. American history is laced with that idea.

On another note:
Personally, I wish America would be more accepting to women who wear the veil. I, having lived in Georgia my entire life, would love to wear a veil and experience freedom from society's judgement and fashion's ridiculously tight grip. If I were to wear it, then I'm sure I would be sneered at. If my father or boyfriend were to go anywhere in public with me, people would probably give them some equally (if not more) disgusting looks. America is a great place, but it's far from perfect.

Such silly things we people are! Too prideful to change. Too arrogant to learn. Too apish to evolve.

To veil or not to veil?

Wendy, Honolulu, HI — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 06:15:57 GMT

For anyone who wants to get a peek into the lives of these women, I highly recommend reading The Bookseller of Kabul by Åsne Seierstad. I don't normally read political books for leisure but I thought this one was really interesting!

To veil or not to veil?

D'Shell, Fairbanks, AK — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 06:33:32 GMT

the problem with religion, is that those who are strong in number of strength, still tend to use certain aspects of it to THEIR discreet advantage. but this is only b/c they have insecure personalities and mindsets. a true believer would never force his/her religion down the throat of others. they would live by example and when asked, tell others about their faith and how their faith has helped them in life. it's called witnessing, and unfortuntately, it's not done as it should. you witness, you encourage and then you put it in God's hands and go on. there isn't much you can do about the spiritual welfare of others. God gave us freewill. He wants us to come to Him ON OUR OWN. He wants us to serve and worship Him BECAUSE WE WANT TO. not b/c someone bigger and richer and stronger, etc then us told us to. this may be the main reason why i will never visit a muslim country. i will not be forced to serve God how you say b/c you say so. if i ever do it (convert), it will be b/c i want to. b/c i saw something in islam that filled a missing void in my life. for now, that void is filled by Protestanism, namely Pentecostalism (raised COGIC, but am considering AOG. i go to a UPC b/c my husband does and has been going to this church since he was stationed here in AK. when we move, i'll find us another church, probably AOG.)

To veil or not to veil?

Brian McDowell, Corona, California — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 07:09:09 GMT

You say in your article that in order to get to her neighborhood you had to wear a veil, that going in your normal attire would have been tantamount to a death sentence, then list yourself as someone who refuses to wear the veil. I guess you mean most of the time.

To veil or not to veil?

Nick — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 07:47:53 GMT

How about covering yourself to appease God like you should. You live in an islamic country, deal with it. And you shouldn't have to "change your life" if you had been raised correctly.

To veil or not to veil?

Miskit,Tucson, AZ. — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 08:04:46 GMT

The purpose of religion...all religions, is to control people. The purpose of most religious leaders is to be the controllers. How they do it is arbitrary, but all of them think God approves of their behavior.
This is why Jesus said: "I tell you the truth, I do not know you."

To veil or not to veil?

Rochester, NY — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 10:39:20 GMT

To wear
that would be my preference, İ am an American muslim who grew up in a free and democratic country, İ am a systems analyst in a international coorparation, given the choice to open up, İ would never do so, no one has forced my to cover and feel totally self confident about who İ am. İ do it beacuse it is a requirement of my religion (Gods command) but İ also do it because feel more comfortable this way, and keeps the unwanted people from seeming my realy beauty. Also forces people to deal with me as a woman with intellect and intellegents rather than an object to stare at. Truely it needs to be a choice for each person, who needs to make it for themselves but a choice that you will pay for the consequences of from God whether in this world and/or the hereafter and not from the men ruling your life.

To veil or not to veil?

berry allen raymond wa — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 11:49:57 GMT

if a woman chooses to wear a veil of her own free will, then so be it. however, it seems to this middle aged u.s. male, that forcing a woman to wear a veil, or any other form of clothing, is just another example of an anchent, and sadly outdated, form of gender controle. may the dark ages finally be over. Inshallah.

To veil or not to veil?

d juarez/san antonio/tx — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:00:20 GMT

it's criminal we're still spilling american blood and untold amt of dollars in a foreign land with religous beliefs stuck in the stone age. democracy lives, breathes and grows ia an atmosphere of differing opinions, beliefs, creeds, religions. that of which will never see the light of day in iraq.

To veil or not to veil?

Marie Johnson, Denver, CO — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 13:57:54 GMT

I am glad I live in a country where most men are able to control themselves, have respect for what women can and do accomplish, and honor the balance that women bring to their life. I have thought about this issue when I've seen women, here in the United States, fully veiled (which quite frankly I find offensive). To veil or not to veil is a very personal decision based on what is being accomplish. If protection of my family is involved or it allowes access to some greater benefit, I would wear the veil. If I were not afraid for my life, or of death, and/or I could get around without it, I would not.

To veil or not to veil?

Ayesha — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 14:09:41 GMT

I don't understand why these extremists are imposing their ridiculous ideas onto the rest of the Islamic world, firstly no where in the Quran does it say that women MUST cover their face, it actually says that their face should be shown as well as their hands.
It is a choice, not something that is forced. Wearing a veil or covering up because you are forced to is not Islamic in any way as in Islam you are supposed to do things that come from the heart, i.e. you must WANT to cover up or pray etc.
Murdering or torturing innocent women for wearing *shock, horror* a skirt is plain barbaric and not Islamic any any shape or form.
Women should stick together and get out of a place that enforces such disgusting methods of making a woman more "islamic". Men should realise that tomorrow it could be their wife, sister or mother that is being murdered for showing an ankle.
Same goes for Saudi Arabia, they have made up their own little laws and called it "islamic law", when no where in the Quran does it say that women should not drive for example or not wear makeup. The only thing about the mixing of sexes is that they should refrain from sexual relationships outside marraige.

To veil or not to veil?

Pam H. Ada,Oklahoma — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 14:54:03 GMT

It breaks my heart for all of our "sisters" who cannot wake every day without fear. For everywhere in the world where women and children and vulnerable people are mistreated and not given even the basic dignity that we are all born deserving, you are in my heart and I think of you every day.

To veil or not to veil?

Angela Harris, Kansas City, MO — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 15:02:08 GMT

How can people hear about and see treatment like this and still say we have no right to judge a culture? Radical Islam (note: not all Islam, just the radicalized version that seems so prevalent these days) seems to be particularly brutal to women forcing even the unwilling to bend to its strictures. How can we expect a culture that has no freedom or tolerance within itself for its own people to be respectful or tolerant of other cultures outside itself?

To veil or not to veil?

Norah, Washington D.C. — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 15:34:34 GMT

Shame on the author of this blog for calling it "Islamic law." There is NOTHING in Islam that says to abuse women who do not wear the veil. If men see an uncovered woman, they're supposed to avert their eyes, not kill or threaten her.
Islam is the premier feminist religion. Although it recommends that women dress conservatively, it gave women the right to own property, the right to their own wealth, and divorce. All this when women were property of men under Christian law. So don't tell me that Islam is a violent or unfair religion. Hell, we even greet people with "Peace be upon you" (asalamu alaykum). How about doing a bit of research. Look for the facts in history, and read everything in full context. To my fellow Americans, please don't judge 1 billion people based on what a tiny percentage of psychos are doing on TV. Islam is not a violent religion, it just has a few violent followers who disgrace all Muslims.

To veil or not to veil?

Minneapolis, MN — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 15:38:34 GMT

I think it's true that American women often wear too little -- we are expected by our society to be sexy, above all else, and that is detrimental to our mental health, too. However, good men in our society control THEMSELVES by not looking or not allowing indecent thoughts. Woman shouldn't have to cover completely up in order for men not to have inappropriate thoughts about them. Men should exersise self-control (as a Christian, I recognize self-control as one of the fruits of the holy spirit). Mariam in Florida says that women in Islam have "lost their virginity" if a man thinks they are sexy...here, if a man persists in inappropriate thoughts, it is HIS fault not hers. I'm not condoning skimpy clothes -- I hate them. But woman don't need all the blame for arousing men, for Pete's sake.

To veil or not to veil?

Tman — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 15:45:28 GMT

I think the muslim men should wear the veils instead of the women. I'm rather tired of seeing all the screaming bearded fanatics on TV every time I turn it on.

To veil or not to veil?

margaret heekin — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 15:46:10 GMT

Oppressive and repressive policies in governments fortified by "religious" zealotry have a powerful effect on its subjects. The survival mechanisim kicks on and people are willing to do most anything to avoid persecution. the divide and conquer method applies and people resign themselves to the treatment. Before long, it is accepted as "normal". Once this takes place, real change becomes very difficult. There is no widespread support for it and the oppressor gains legitimacy. Personally, i don't believe women should be forced to hide under these ridiculous, dangerous and uncomfortable costumes however, they will continue to wear them as long as personal survival is at stake. likewise, mothers will continue to allow their daughters to be sexually mutilated and forced into unwanted marriages as long as the fear of reprisals is stronger than the will to fight for change. It is a fact that some will suffer to effect a change. Many already have but, as demonstrated by our own sufferage movement, sustained effort and willingness to risk reprisals can and did foment many changes to the rule of law and social policy. I find it impossible to imagine the burdens and restrictions imposed on my great grandmothers, but it is because of their refusal to accept second class citizenship, I am able to dress as I please, hold public office, vote, own property, have equal status in a courtroom as my husband, obtain credit and the rights of survivorship in case of his death. It has been more than proven decision making, policy making and pleasure taking do not require a penis. It took a major fight to achieve it. The women of the islamic world need to decide for themselves if it is worth it. It is then and only then, that they will take the actions they deem suitable... We can support them, and most women i know do but the final decision is theirs

To veil or not to veil?

Donna C, Shelby Township, MI — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:00:49 GMT

Mohamed was a well educated man who was given the word of God. He wrote down God's exact will into the Quran and to this day, not a word has changed. Islam is a religion of submission and is the fastest growing religion on this Earth. Islam in its true form is against punishing woman for such crimes, but Radicalists have taken measures into their own hands. Islam should not be given a bad name due to the actions of such radicals.

To veil or not to veil?

ZFR, Atlanta- Georgia — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:07:54 GMT

Hi:

In the Arab tradition, all womens should always wear a respectful clothes. In Iraq of today, the picture is confused between freedom and religion stricts. The reason is because the dramatic changes that occured in the society after 2003. Now while every one wants to enjoy the freedom in Iraq, no one wants to rule out the religous believe. On the other hand, in the Iraqi society of today, there are many religous based parties that have many followers seeking a share of power in the Iraqi government. These are implementing a strict religous rules on womens. The degree of the women believe to wear or not wear a face cover or a "veil" in Iraq today, it varies between ehtnic groups. You have the sunnis, the shiite, the christians, the Yazidees, the young and the old and so on ... Because of the violance in the streets, every women would like to wear a viel or to cover her self for her own security. The eldery and the tribal women who live out side the rural areas (Cities)in Iraq, have always wore a respectifull clothes from their head down to their toes to protect them selves from the rough weather or the climate. In my openion, the scarf for the Iraqi eldery women as healthy, but it is interupting as the matter concern the young women, who seeks high education, freedom, equality, modernization, and to cooperate with the progress of technology in our present day modern world. All religions must be respected, at the same time the human rights must be secured at any where any place in the world.

To veil or not to veil?

Sus V, Western NY — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:14:03 GMT

The true test of any religious belief, is whether or not it "bears fruit". Things such as, love, joy, peace, gentleness, meekness, hope, and so on.
Islam, seems to "bear fruit" of the rotten variety.
Things like hate, sorrow, confusion, heavy handidness, arrogance, hopelessness, abuse, and so on.
Why anyone would want to identify with this abusive lifestyle and carry the burden of it's sorrow and hate, is hard to see.

To veil or not to veil?

Patrick M, Sunrise, Florida — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:25:08 GMT

Anyone, Muslim, Christian, Jewish or otherwise, who uses religion as a justification of violence and oppression, deserves utmost retribution. I deeply respect the women who stand up for themselves and the people that protect them, and understand the others who cannot for fear of their own safety and that of their families.

What bothers me though is that there are many out there who think Islam an inherently violent religion. The problem is that the extremists are pressuring the people into following these violent misinterpretations of the true, peaceful religion. Christianity itself has a dark history of people commiting terrible violence and wrongful punishment (Witch Hunts, anyone?) but that does not mean Christianity or its followers are all violent. The acts of the few cannot represent the beliefs of the whole.