An exclusive all-girls private school in New Zealand is facing a backlash after banning Muslim students from wearing the hijab.
Diocesan School for Girls in Auckland said the hijab was not allowed under their uniform code.
Responding to criticism, the $19,000-a-year school conceded that girls could wear hijabs only for a "Scarves in Solitarity" event on Friday in the wake of the terror attack targeting Muslims in mosques in Christchurch.
Diocesan School Principal, Heather McRae said in a statement: "Any girl or person who wants to show their respect for Muslim families affected in Christchurch by wearing a hijab to school on this day is most welcome to do so."
She explained that their uniform code is strict with girls prohibited from wearing jewellery or nail polish, long hair must be tied back and school blazers worn outside the grounds. [Evening Standard] Read more
