When people see a woman in hijab, they automatically know she is Muslim. There is a level of respect for her and her faith in the Islamic community. I do miss that part of being a hijabi. I feel like being uncovered and a black Muslimah, I constantly prove or verify that I am actually Muslim.
It is annoying when someone feels the need to give me an Islamic pop quiz before returning the salaams. Yes, I did the Islamic pop quiz for my Arab and South Asian brothers and sisters when I was in hijab, which always pissed me off. It seems like now any and everyone feels the need to verify my faith. It is comical when non-muslims try to tell me I am not Muslim because I do not cover. They always have a friend, know of someone, or just base their conclusion on the media. I try not to entertain those conversations, but I am human and enjoy giving a witty response.
What I wear and how I choose to display my modesty is between me and Allah(SWT). Nobody knows what is in my heart, regardless that shouldn’t dictate whether you return the salaams or not. I’ve never proclaimed to be the most pious Muslimah, but at the end of the day, my heart, soul, and who I am is a Muslim Woman!
So cut the shit and return the damn salaams! Nobody has to prove anything to anyone!
The Misunderstood Afro-Muslimah 
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