In light of FIFA lack of arbitration in the case of an 11-year-old Muslim girl from playing in a tournament near Montreal last weekend because she was wearing a head scarf, hijab (we discussed it here), we ask the Quebec soccer federation to clarify its position on the players wearing of religious clothing/symbols such the hijab
We as Canadian ask for the reasoning behind this ruling from the Quebec Soccer Federation. They cite safety concerns being the reason for the ban. Explain to me how a hijab poses a risk to anyone playing the game. How is it any different from headbands which are allowed?…And the fact that it is allowed in other provinces (namely Ontario)..
If the rules are vague that it allows for individual league organizers, referees and teams to interpret, then the Quebec Soccer Federation needs to set the precedent and show us Canadians that soccer is indeed a sport for all with no discrimination. Show us that is not another case in a growing trend of Islamophobia in Quebec.
Email the president of the Quebec Soccer Federation, Mr. Dino Madonis politely asking for an explanation and for him to enlighten us. You can also email Valmie Ouellet (inset) who seems to be the one that is championing this crusade against veiled 11-year old girls. Good job Valmie, I hope you can sleep better at night.
Also, you might want to check out these two articles (1,2) written by Dr. Sheema Khan in the Globe and Mail about the hijab and soccer (Why is this even a topic of discussion?!?!)
