The first American to compete while wearing a hijab in the Olympics reflected on standing on the medal podium with Team USA after winning a bronze in fencing.
Ibtihaj Muhammad told CNN “This is the America that I know and I love-the American that is inclusive, that is accepting and that encompasses people from all walks of life.”
She encouraged the youth to dream big and said “anyone can have this moment.” She urged the young not to allow stereotypes to dictate their lives for them.
“Muslims come in all shapes and sizes and we do various things,” she said. “We’re productive members of society and we’re even present here on the United States Olympic Team.”
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