Covered Girls 2001
Distributed by Filmakers Library, 124 East 40th Street, New York, NY 10016; 202-808-4980
Produced by Janet McIntyre and Amy Wendel
Director n/a
VHS, b&, 22 min.
Sr. High - Adult
Multicultural Studies, Religious Studies, Islam
Date Entered: 04/20/2005
Reviewed by Homa Naficy, Coordinator, The American Place: A Resource Center for Immigrants and Refugees, Hartford Public Library, Hartford, CTTavasha is an African-American nineteen-year-old rap artist, who chose to become a Muslim because she was tired of the person she was: "I was lost...empty...unhappy." Tavasha's mother is Protestant. Their different beliefs cause no conflict in their close relationship. Her mother's only concern is for her daughter’s safety. Since 9/11, Tavasha has faced the double jeopardy of being both a person of color and an adherent to a feared faith. Most practicing Muslim women are easily recognized when they decide to adopt the hijab (head scarf), and hijabs have become targets for violence. "Some people even spit on you," reports one of the interviewees. Although Tavasha tries to make light of her suffering by pointing out to all the fancy designer hijabs in her wardrobe, Tavasha, is subjected to harassment.
In addition to Tavash's story, the film captures other Muslim-American teens - playing basketball, bowling, screaming and huddling on roller coaster rides, and speculating together about marriage. By depicting the girls in their full-length dresses and hijabs behaving just like teens in western clothing, the film gently reminds us to observe the adage about not judging a book by its cover. The voices we hear are casual, straightforward and heartfelt The background rap music fits well into the black and white urban scene. This short film is an excellent choice for a discussion about bigotry amongst teenagers.