From The New Zealand Herald
Face coverings can polarise Kiwis in New Zealand. Some see them as victimisation, others as unnecessary. Those who choose to wear them have to deal with differing attitudes on a daily basis.
Lynn, a New Zealand-born European, took on the name Siti Aminah after her conversion to Islam while living in Malaysia in the late 90s.
Although she still professes to be a firm believer of the faith, Ms Aminah said she has had to lead “a double life” since returning to New Zealand nearly 10 years ago.
“I have been wearing the hijab (a veil that covers the head and chest) since I became a Muslim, but that became an issue when I came back here,” said the 47-year-old customer relations officer. “For months I could not find work and I suspect a lot had to do with the hijab because I landed a job after the very first interview I went to without wearing one.”
She did not want to be photographed for this report, and spoke to the Herald on the condition that she was identified only by her Muslim name. Today Ms Aminah goes to work without the hijab, but wears it outside work and when going out with friends.
“It’s not that I am embarrassed about my faith or anything, but I lead this double life because I still have to make a living,” said Ms Aminah, who was raised a Catholic. “In New Zealand, people get unfairly treated and face prejudices when they are visibly different, even in dressing.”
