My name is Nawal Salim and I am an actress that wears a hijab. In July of 2019, I took a class at one of the most notable acting schools in Toronto. On the first day, the instructor wanted to take a look at everyone’s head shots and critique them. He took a look at mine and said, “I wouldn’t wear a black hijab.” I asked why and he responded, “Because their flag is black.” He was referring to ISIS. He was saying that my black hijab made me look like I was a part of a terrorist group. I wore a black hijab because it matched my outfit. I also wore a bright red shirt. In no way did my picture imply terrorist. I felt powerless because I couldn’t report the inappropriate comment to anyone, first, because it was his private school so there was no HR and second, because he is known for training talented actors and since I’m not successful yet, I felt nobody would believe my story or hold him accountable. I wasted hundreds of dollars, and hours of my time, only to feel disrespected.
