5 Issues (Out of Many) to Focus on Instead of a “Hijabi” in Playboy

The “First” Never Works

Staying with the idea of “shattering stereotypes,” it is delusional to think that one member of a marginalized group becoming the “first” at something will improve the dehumanizing circumstances of the entire group. If that worked, Blacks wouldn’t be murdered by police while unarmed, unfairly criminalized, targeted for the prison industrial complex or funneled through the school to prison pipeline.

Being the “first” of an ethnic group may relax White racism and xenophobia for that person and a few in privileged spheres. However, for the majority, there will be little progress, especially if that “first” does little to use their privileged platform to bring issues of inequality to the forefront.

Having the “first” covered Muslim woman in Playboy will not keep the next creep on an anti-Muslim tirade from targeting a Muslim woman in hijab any more than Oprah keeps Blacks from being subject to discrimination.

How about instead of focusing on the “first” time, let’s put our energy, clicks, likes and shares towards establishing an even playing field for the seconds, thirds and so on to increase their potential for success? Being the “first” ethnic anything is no guarantee that the field is now open to everyone.

And before commenting, “Muslims can do both,” save it because they don’t.

Hopefully all this hijabi-Playboy claptrap is over. Priorities people!

Layla Abdullah-Poulos is an adjunct at SUNY Empire State College. She has her master’s degree and advance certificate in Women and Gender Studies.  Abdullah-Poulos is the founder and president of Minority Students in Action, a student group dedicated to fostering inclusion and multiculturalism in higher education.  She also manages the NbA Muslims website, which features the distinctive native-born American Muslim hybrid cultural experience.

Masters Degree and advance certificate in Women and Gender Studies