Ok, first, thanks again Ms. Useem for writing back to me. I am very glad to hear that the issue I am describing was part of your thinking about the Hijab (and I do feel just a wee bit vindicated by you, so thanks).

However, I do not want to give anyone the impression that I think the taking off the veil is the "right" thing to do, or the only way to solve that dilemma. I just think that the dilemma needs to be acknowledged and understood. A person can make up their own mind, but I think the issue deserves a moment or two of thought. The only thing I have been saying here is that I would like to hear more voices like Ms. Useem who can put their free wearing of a Hijab in perspective with the enforced wearing that others are subjected too.

As for the issues facing blondes in America, I am unaware of any laws that forbid them from driving, or leaving town without their husband's permission. I am unaware of any law that requires 4 of them be present in court to counter the testimony of 1 male. I am unaware of any laws requiring blondes to retain their current hair color. I am unaware of any religious figures, still alive, who have advocated the killing of blondes should they choose to die their hair brown. There are major social problems with sexism in the US, but they in no way approach the heinous nature of state or tribe-mandated oppression seen in some countries. It is NOT the same thing.

These things are connected -

Human rights matter. In some parts of the world, the institution of veiling is used as a means to oppress women. Veiling, historically, has always been used for that purpose in addition to its religious symbolism. All I'm asking is that women who are free from that system of oppression, and choose to wear the veil, consider what role veiling can\should play in the world. We should always examine and question our own institutions, especially when human rights are involved.