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Maryville University students will host Hijab Awareness Day on Tuesday, Feb. 2, to dispel misconceptions about the headscarf and build greater understanding between people of all faiths.

Beginning at 9 a.m., the Muslim Student Association will distribute the headscarves in Gander Dining Hall. As students show participants how to wear them, they will also talk about misconceptions and address the question, “Is it oppressive?” Participants will wear the hijab throughout the day.

“We hope to provide people of different faiths, or no faith, the opportunity to experience a part of Islam in a safe, friendly, and open environment.”

Later, during an evening reflection to be held from 7 to 8 p.m. in Donius University Center, Muslim students will share their experiences wearing the hijab, and participants will share their own experiences from Hijab Awareness Day.

“We hope to provide people of different faiths, or no faith, the opportunity to experience a part of Islam in a safe, friendly, and open environment in order to build an understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims,” said Shehmin Awan, a representative of the Muslim Student Association.