I spent several years studying Islam when I was younger.
Most people assume that the woman is being forced to cover herself, but in reality most do it by choice (in my experience).
My then best friend converted to Islam to marry her husband (who is Pakastani). She never covered herself unless she was in the mosque, and then only a loose head scarf (I did this as well when in the mosque).
After many years, she herself decided to wear a head covering daily. Not because she was pressured or hounded to do so. But because it became a part of what she sought and who she was.
In Islam covering oneself is not meant to be demeaning. In fact, the thought is that a woman will be treated equally.
Islam does not set out to lessen a womans power (although any religion can and is skewed by those with nefarious motives), instead a woman is revered.
There is no mention in the Koran of a woman not working, being able to own land or things or not being able to drive. On the contrary.
All of these mandates have been set forth by misogynist males who seek to control (all) not enlighten.
A woman does not forfit her right to be a feminist (nor should she be looked upon in such a way by others) simply because she chooses to cover herself.
It is her right.
With that said (and as I've stated above) there are some who do so because they fear retribution, from either a husband, father or brother. This to me is ever so sad.
Unfortunately, due to extremists, a religion that holds much beauty has been marred.
On one last note: Throughout history, women have covered themselves, even in Christianity. Just a bit of food for thought.
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