Family Considers Suit as Citadel Rejects Hijab

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — A spokesman for the family of a newly-accepted Muslim student at the Citadel military school in South Carolina says the prospective cadet is disappointed that the school has rejected her request to wear a head covering as part of her uniform.
Ibrahim Hooper with the Council on American-Islamic Relations in Washington said he spoke with the family Tuesday morning after Citadel officials called to tell the woman she could not wear a hijab. Citadel President John Rosa said the cadet system is based on a common uniform and standardization of cadets in appearance, actions and privileges, which he called essential to a military system.
Hooper said the woman will not attend the Charleston school this fall unless there is a change. He also said the family is considering legal options.