A quick explanation - the infamous line

[Asiyah]

At at first I was horrified to learn this line existed. But Mafi has explained the the Burqa she was referring to here was a very specific garment that the Taliban issued. It was specific color and women were forced to wear it hence the line. She also clarified that she never meant for it to reflect other garments that muslim women like herself wear by choice, including but not limited to the abaya, hijab and niqab. She also expressed that there is a lot of blanket terms that are used for garments worn by muslim women. The burqa is not the only garment worn that covers the face, nor was always used in the context of the Taliban, but in the context of that line she was referring the garment issued by the Taliban which differs slightly from Burqa's worn by choice. Because of that she's actually removing the line so there's no farther confusion. As a hijabi wearing WOC I completely understand the confusion and frustration around that line of dialogue, and I'm glad that Mafi cleared it up. I haven't read the book yet but I want to remind folks that religion is not a monolith and Mafi is writing a singular narrative that is never meant to represent all muslims. Feel free to share your thoughts below :)

[Jiji]

Asiyah wrote: "At at first I was horrified to learn this line existed. But Mafi has explained the the Burqa she was referring to here was a very specific garment that the Taliban issued. It was specific color and..."

Yes! Thank you for spreading this. I'm glad she addressed this and moving forward has decided to remove it. Can't wait to read it! x