The veil

Everywoman talks to women in Egypt about what motivated them to cover their hair

In Egypt now, the majority of girls cover their hair, either with a hijab – a headscarf, or with a niqab – which veils the entire face, including the eyes. But this hasn’t always been the case, in the 1970s only a minority of Egyptian women covered themselves.

Some say the changes reflect a growing conservatism in Egyptian society. Others argue the hijab is more of a fashion statement than a symbol of religious purity. 

Everywoman met three Egyptian women, and their families, and asked them about their decision to cover themselves – or not.

We also talk to three women in Egypt about what motivated them to wear a hijab- a headscarf, a niqab, or veil, or to leave their hair and faces uncovered.

They talk about how much the veil is about vanity, how much about perceived modesty. They talk frankly about their decision and the reactions they get.

Watch part one of this episode of Everywoman

Watch part two of this episode of Everywoman

This episode of Everywoman aired on Friday, May 16, 2008

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