At the end of last year that I was placed into a group of all males (they are locals) for a project. Initially, there was some awkward tension between us, especially when I was the only female and a hijabi. But I made an effort to not be awkward and joke with them in order to slash through the tense atmosphere. We hung out and laughed together to get the project done.
It was until a few days ago, when we all gathered in a group again, few of them told me they were quite surprised that I was such a fun person despite how I look. I asked them what do they mean by that. They said that it is such a shame that I have to conform to Islamic rules when they know I could have been a lot more outgoing than that; go out with them and get trashed on the weekends. One of them even went,'I really like you. I would have dated you if it wasn't because of your hijab'. I was so hurt. I never knew a friendship would come at an expense of 'taking my hijab off'.
The deadline is coming in about 2 weeks time and I couldn't bring myself to look into their eyes again. I knew I should have said something but I was literally gobsmacked. Knowing that I'm not in my own country, so I understand their ignorance on this issue, Now, I'm just off doing my own part in the group and not caring what the others are doing.
Do you reckon that I should say something back to them? I was just wondering if anyone else had been in a similar situation? For non-Muslims, are you really embarrassed to be seen with your Muslim friends, especially the hijab-wearing ones? I know some who do.
Put the internet to work for you.
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