Sixteen-year-old Noor ran the best race of her life–then was disqualified. During the pre-race uniform check, her teammate was told she was in violation and had to change her shorts. Noor wore the same uniform through years of competition and nobody said anything. Her coach, who is responsible for making sure all of his athletes meet OHSSA rules and regulations, said nothing during those years or on that day. But that day, a day she, her coach, team, parents, family, and friends should be celebrating, she was disqualified for a uniform violation–wearing her customary hijab, which officials put into the same category as a cap or hat, thus violating their rules. Unless it was religious, in which case the athlete had to get special permission in advance from OHSSA (she was never asked before or told about the rule).
Whose fault was this? Certainly not Noor’s. Maybe society’s. Why would any person or organization consider religious attire on the same level as a baseball cap or sun hat? Or think that special advance permission was needed for such a common expression of faith? Christians, hide the cross or crucifix you wear around your neck, and Jews hide your Star of David. And, Noor, please know that most of us respect your meeting your religious dictates, as well as your talent.