Me or my clothes?

When I returned to Bangladesh after PhD, I joined a private University. But I was waiting for the opening at my own university, where I studied and joined right after our graduation. I was almost sure to join there, so my daughters were going to school near the Dhaka University campus — to me, it was just a matter of time.

I kept in touch with the department, worked voluntarily for various things and when the opening was there, I applied through the proper procedure — letting my current employees know about it. Hafiz sir asked me why I wanted to leave, and I just wanted to teach those enthusiastic kids where I once was a part. I taught the batch a few years younger than me, and now I realize, it was really bad teaching — I am still in touch with those amazing students all around the world. I wished to be in the campus where we grew up as kids.

But reality was different. Once I finished my interview, my department told me that in the departmental meeting, they decided to offer me a temporary lecturer position where candidates without a PhD would receive the permanent position. Our then chairman explained nicely that they are skeptical about me, referring to my hijab, and in a low voice mentioned “hijabis can be dangerous”. I left with the label. Left the dream. Left the part of me living in the campus in my imagination.

Heard a similar conversation today.

Women are judged by their clothes, not their degrees, results or anything professional, at least not here. And anyone has the right to comment about that. Yes, loud and clear.