Inspirational stage play celebrates sisterhood, empowerment

By Daleel Jabir Muhammad | Last updated: Jul 24, 2018 - 5:10:56 PM

NEW YORK—The exciting stage play “Not Without My Hijab” debuted July 14 at the Brooklyn Academy of Music to sold out crowds and an astounding success at delivering a message of empowerment, struggle, faith and family.

Halimah DeOliveira created the play along with Bilal Islam, who wrote and directed this production, which gives insight to what a typical Muslim American teenage girl goes through in her life trying to fit in and to remain faithful to her deen (religion).

The dynamics of a Muslim household was the underlying message in the play in which the father guides with compassion, positive direction and a comprehensive understanding of Islam and he allows his daughter to be herself despite his apprehension.

Halimah DeOliveira and Jr. Vanguard of Muhammad Mosque No. 7.

The Ummi (mother in Arabic) is supportive and accepting of her daughter’s friends, both Muslims and non-Muslims. The brother who is the defender of his sister’s honor was a brilliant display of illustrating how men must protect and respect women. Halimah DeOliveira said “the play is designed to educate Muslims and non-Muslims about the hijab (head covering).”

“It is a reminder that it is not to keep us in our deen or to keep others out, but it defines us as representatives of Islam,” said Ms. DeOliveira. She went on to say that “the hijab is not just the cloth, but it is the way you walk, act, treat other people and the way you carry yourself.”

The MGT and GCC from New York were represented and well received before and after the play. The women from the Nation of Islam in support of the play joined various Muslim communities at The Brooklyn Academy of Music in their fine colorful garb reflecting “the teachings” of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad under the guidance of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan with class and dignity that added to the atmosphere of peace and tranquility.

M.G.T. after the play.

Student MGT Captain Johnna Muhammad, of New York, brought nearly 30 sisters along with their young daughters to see the play. Though the play was about the Hijab, it represented all Muslim women who cover, she explained.

“We live in a time where being a Muslim is considered taboo. So, the covering is not looked upon in a positive light by those who have a warped understanding of Islam and that it represents peace. It is why we need our own schools so that our children are not pressured to fit in with a society that opposes Islam and those who choose to practice it.”

Imam Abdul Malik, who was in attendance, stated, “I think the play is a perfect example of when a Muslim sister is raised in Islam and the father figure who is compelled not to lose his daughter but he gives in just a little bit hoping he is being compassionate with her.”

He went on to say, “I pray Allah blesses Sister Halimah with success with this production and I pray that her work will continue to be perfected, Insh’Allah (God-willing).”

Regarding Muslim women, Min. Farrakhan once stated: “You should always wear garments that cover you. And if they don’t cover you, then why buy them? You are sacred and if you don’t see yourself as sacred, then you will display yourself and put yourself in positions and get yourself in conditions that destroy the sacredness of who you are.”

Cast and production crew of the play, “Not Without My Hijab.” Photos: Daleel Jabir Muhammad

Johnna Muhammad (right), Halimah DeOliveira (center) and Muslim women and girls.

Loray Muhammad (in beige) with various Muslimahs.

“Not Without My Hijab” will be on tour in Texas, Atlanta and Chicago. For more information follow Halimah DeOliveira on Instagram or Facebook @BEYOUIN HD.

The Final Call