Quebec Soccer League Prohibits Wearing Hijab In Games

One of the rules of the Quebec Soccer Federation prohibits players from wearing headgear during the game. Yesterday's Winnipeg Free Press reports that last Sunday, an 11-year old Muslim girl was told by the referee that she must remove her hijab (head scarf) if she wanted to play in a tournament being held near Laval. The action, taken by a Muslim referee, has provoked controversy, with some arguing that it is another example of inadequate accommodation of individuals' religious practices. The Muslim Council of Montreal urged Quebec to follow the lead of the Ontario Soccer Association that allows players to wear religious clothing on the field.