Forty Eastern Michigan University students spent a day this week dressed as Muslim women as part of "Hijab Day."
The hijab is a scarf that covers the head and neck and is worn by some women who practice Islam.
"Hijab Day" was started three years ago by EMU’s Muslim Student Association who hoped to spread awareness about Islam.
Group president Zaineb Al-Kalby helped participants put on the scarf she wears every day.
When the non-Muslim students looked in the mirror, she said they were surprised at their reflections.
"I really feel like they had that second of 'I'm actually in her shoes,'" she said.
EMU senior Emily Keyes, who was raised Catholic, participated in the event. She says she got mixed responses while wearing the hijab; some strangers looked away from her, while Muslim classmates told her they appreciated the gesture.
"I think it opened my mind to the way people perceive people that wear hijabs," she said.
After spending one day wearing the headscarves, the women met up to discuss their experiences and learn more about Islam's history.
-Elaine Ezekiel, Michigan Radio Newsroom
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