Medical journal retracts article in which hijab is called ‘instrument of oppression’

The Canadian Medical Association Journal has formally retracted the article in which the author calls the hijab an instrument of oppression.

In a statement posted on the CMAJ website, interim editor-in-chief Kristen Patrick said the journal had erred in publishing Dr. Sherif Emil’s article titled “Don’t use an instrument of oppression as a symbol of diversity and inclusion.”

Dr. Emil made several statements in the article which critics called Islamophobic including, “The hijab, the niqab and the burka are … instruments of oppression for millions of girls and women around the world who are not allowed to make a choice.”

The National Council of Canadian Muslims and Muslim Medical Association of Canada had both called for a formal apology and retraction by the CMAJ.

“I sincerely apologize on behalf of the CMAJ for my error in publishing the letter by Dr. Emil, which did not contain appropriate subject matter for publication by the CMAJ and which has disgusted many readers across Canada,” read the statement from Patrick.

She took full responsibility for “the inadequacy of editorial process that led to this error.” Patrick also noted the title of the article was authored by CMAJ and not by Dr. Emil.

There will also be a review of the journal’s processes for “considering, reviewing and publishing submitted letters,” read the statement. “We will act to ensure proper rigour through a process that seeks to reduce bias, with necessary checks and balances.”

Patrick said back in March 2021, she committed to anti-racism and called on readers to hold her and CMAJ accountable.

“Representation of Canada’s Muslim community is currently lacking on our advisory bodies, and I shall seek to remedy this,” said Patrick. “While it’s clear that CMAJ may have lost the trust of many stakeholders this week, I hope that with humility and action we can earn it back.”

Dr. Emil has defended the article in a series of tweets and has not responded to CMAJ’s retraction at this point. The article remains on the CMAJ website as of 4 p.m. Thursday.

The Quebec Advocacy Officer for the NCCM, Lina El Bakir told CityNews Wednesday this type of article being published in a reputable journal is “infuriating.”

“[The article] contributes to dangerously harmful stereotypes about a demographic that has been targeted by some of the most violent forms of Islamophobia in this country,” said El Bakir.