Fencing in a hijab

In a recent interview to Michel Martin from the US National Public Radio, world-class fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad spoke about her hopes to compete in the 2012 London Olympics. If she qualifies, it is believed that she will be the first practicing Muslim to represent the U.S. in women's fencing, and the first American to wear Islamic head-covering while competing.

"I want kids to be comfortable in their own skin and with practicing their religion"
Muhammad spoke about her background, the way she decided to take up fencing, stereotypes and the challenges of combining tough training with dedication to religion, especially during the Ramadan. She concludes: “the reality is that I am different. I mean, I'm African-American and I do wear the hijab. So I know that I look completely different from my teammates, and I don't expect everyone to ignore that fact…fencing has done so much for me. You know, it helped me get into a really great university, and I wouldn't be where I am in my life without fencing, without sports. And it's helped me focus in so many ways. So if my message reaches anyone, I hope that it reaches more kids than anything. I want them to be comfortable in their own skin and be comfortable with practicing their religion, and not only in the United States, but everywhere.”

Read the full interview

Find out more about Ibtihaj Muhammad

Read Michel Martin’s biography