Hijab-wearing American basketball champion writes book for children
WASHINGTON – Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir, the first Muslim woman to play major league basketball while wearing a hijab, is working on a children’s book about her experience.
The book, titled “Lion on the Inside: How One Girl Changed Basketball,” will describe her journey as a young girl who has a great passion for basketball and her faith.
The book focuses on the importance of young children understanding other races and religions.
Bilqis played division 1 basketball.
Division 1 is the highest level of competition in college sports in the U.S. and includes many of the largest and most well-known universities and athletic programs.
Bilqis hopes the book will inspire young readers to become better citizens and advocate for a more inclusive world.
She said that as a black Muslim woman, she does not see many on the basketball court or other playing fields who are like her.
“I see the importance of being real, honest, and raw with our children; in a way they can understand.” Bilqis told news outlets.
“I’m a Black, Muslim woman. You don’t see me on the basketball court or on any playing fields often, so I just pray that this book allows people to love, to accept and to want to learn more from different people,” she added.
She said her book will make people want to love, accept and learn more from others.
The book teaches children about inclusion and diversity.
Bilqis hopes the book will make people change their minds and hearts and overcome stereotypes.
The book is scheduled to be published in the fall of 2023.
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