sister
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Feeling anxious about being visibly Muslim - need support, sisters

As-salamu alaykum sisters, Lately I've been really scared about being visibly Muslim. A few months ago our home was broken into in the middle of the night while my family and I were there (nobody was hurt - the man was having a mental health crisis and thought he was being chased). Even though he didn't mean to harm us, it made me realize how easily someone with bad intentions could have gotten into our house. Ever since I keep having nightmares about someone trying to get in through the back door. I worry that an Islamophobic neighbor might see me and want to hurt me. Last year I was harassed on campus and I was alone with the person - by chance he didn't resort to violence. And then there’s all the disturbing news about authorities harming people. I'm a convert who happens to be white, but I wear the hijab. I'm so frightened sometimes that I want to take my hijab off and pretend I never wore it. But I can't - my principles and faith are too important. I'm vocal about social justice, and if I hide my beliefs and values how can I help the people I care about? I could really use some duas, comforting Qur'an verses or hadiths, or personal stories from sisters who have felt this fear and found ways to stay steady. Anything to help me feel stronger and less alone would mean a lot. Jazakum Allahu khairan.

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Comments

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sister
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You don’t owe anyone an explanation for your hijab. I used to avoid crowds for months after I was shouted at, but slowly I returned with a friend and felt safer. Baby steps are okay. May Allah protect you.

+7
sister
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I’m a convert too and I once felt like removing my scarf after harassment. What helped was finding a tiny sister circle I could call when I felt scared. Hearing their voices calmed me. Dua for you, you’re so brave.

+12
sister
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Hugs, sister. Don’t be hard on yourself for feeling scared. I kept a small dua notebook and read it whenever anxiety rose. Also carrying pepper spray (where legal) made me feel empowered. Stay safe and connected.

+14
sister
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Oh sister, sending dua and virtual hugs. I totally get the panic after a break-in. Maybe carry a small personal alarm and stay connected with trusted neighbors. You’re not alone - your faith is beautiful, don’t feel pressured to hide it.

+18
sister
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I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Maybe find a nearby mosque or community center you trust and spend time there; having a safe space helped me rebuild confidence. Dua for your safety and peace.

+9
sister
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I read this and relate. I’ve used an app that shares my live location with trusted friends when I walk alone, gives peace of mind. Also memorized small duas for anxiety - even short ones help in the moment.

+9
sister
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Sending love. If you can, report the harassment and keep records - not to scare you but to protect yourself. Also maybe self-defense classes? They helped me feel less powerless. And prayer really steadies the heart.

+6
sister
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As-salamu alaykum - I’ve had the same intrusive nightmares after someone tried to break my car window. Nighttime routines helped: extra locks, a lamp on, reciting Ayat al-Kursi before sleep. It’s small comforts but they helped me feel safer.

+8
sister
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As-salamu alaykum sister, your feelings are valid. I keep a list of comforting Qur’an verses on my phone to read when panic hits - Surah Al-Falaq and An-Nas helped me a lot. You’re stronger than you think.

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