Minneapolis: Group Builds Community, Connection for Muslim Women Outdoors

IQNA – Since launching in 2022, Hiking Hijabie, a hiking group for Muslim women in Minneapolis, has grown into a thriving community, bringing together hundreds of participants for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and camping.

Founded by Nasrieen Habib, a local mother of two, the initiative provides a supportive space for Muslim families and women to enjoy the outdoors and stay active, Sahan Journal reported on Tuesday.

Habib’s organization, Amanah Recreational Projects, now includes Hiking Hijabie, Hiking Ummah for families, and other community programs like EcoJariyah, a sustainable sportswear line, and Chai and Chat, a social gathering group.

“I want to make sure my community feels safe and comfortable in their environment, where they can engage in physical activities and enjoy the outdoors,” Habib explained.

Through events and social media, Habib’s groups have reached more than 870 people. In addition to local meetups, members have ventured to national sites like Glacier National Park, Mount Rainier, and the Grand Canyon.

For many participants, these outings foster community bonds and offer a chance to share new experiences with like-minded individuals.

“The pandemic was difficult for me, and when I found Hiking Hijabie on Instagram, I immediately reached out,” said Malika Dahir, who moved to Minnesota in 2015.

Dahir, originally from Memphis, says the group has given her family opportunities to enjoy Minnesota’s outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to snowshoeing. “These activities help families build core memories,” she added.

Another participant, Dilek Hanedar, originally from Germany, emphasized the importance of community support for immigrants adapting to life in the U.S. “Coming together, learning from each other, and choosing a healthy lifestyle are important for our survival,” Hanedar shared.

Beyond recreation, Habib is focused on sustainability and giving back. Her EcoJariyah project combines eco-friendly practices with charitable efforts, donating 15% of profits to the American Relief Agency for the Horn of Africa.

“Islam teaches us to care for each other and the environment,” she noted. The group’s environmental initiatives include promoting minimalism and recycling.

Looking to the future, Habib aims to expand the Hiking Hijabie model to other states, including Washington, Texas, and Ohio, where large Muslim communities reside. “If we get the support we need, I want to create a space with all the amenities our families need,” she said.

Source: Agencies