For a devout Muslim woman, a facial covering is part of her everyday life. However outside or traditionally Muslim countries this can cause difficulties, even controversy. Zunera Ishaq refused to take part in a Canadian citizenship ceremony because according to law she would be required to show her face, an act that goes against her religious beliefs.
Zunera Ishaq in Ottawa on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2015
This issue was already brought to the federal court where Ishaq won on account of the ban on wearing the Niqab violating the Citizenship Act, which says that “candidates for citizenship must be allowed he greatest possible religious freedom when they take the oath.“. The government appealed the ruling but lost. Many people believe that the niqab should not be permitted in a citizenship ceremony, but that the face should be visible as people display their loyalty to the country proudly and openly. People are now seeking an appeal from the supreme court. Ishaq is waiting to hear if the Supreme Court will take the case to see if she will be able to obtain her citizenship in time to vote in the October 19th election.
The Quester's Tale 