No. 98: Ibtihaj Muhammad
Episode Transcript
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What does it mean to break barriers and shatter stereotypes on the world stage? How does one woman turn a symbol of faith into a symbol of strength, winning Olympic glory in the process?
Hi, I’m Shae, a PhD candidate at Harvard, and I’m here to bring you the stories of remarkable Black women who’ve changed the course of history. This is “100 Historic Black Women You Should Know By Election Day.”
Today, we’re talking about Ibtihaj Muhammad—a trailblazer in the world of sports who has made history in more ways than one. Born on December 4, 1985, in Maplewood, New Jersey, Ibtihaj grew up in a family that valued both education and athleticism. From a young age, she was encouraged to pursue her passions and discovered fencing as the perfect outlet for her competitive spirit and strategic mind. Ibtihaj quickly excelled in the sport, becoming a standout athlete with an impressive record. She captured the world’s attention by winning bronze at the 2014 and 2015 World Championships as part of the U.S. women’s sabre team.
But it was in 2016 that she truly made history. At the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, Ibtihaj Muhammad became the first Muslim American woman to compete in the Games wearing a hijab. Her presence on the global stage was a powerful statement, challenging misconceptions and inspiring countless women and girls around the world. Ibtihaj and her team went on to win the bronze medal in the team sabre event, making her not only a pioneer but also an Olympic medalist.
Beyond her achievements on the fencing strip, Ibtihaj has become a powerful voice for diversity, inclusion, and empowerment. She has authored two books: a memoir titled Proud: My Fight for an Unlikely American Dream and a children’s book, The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family, which she co-wrote with S.K. Ali. Both books offer inspiring messages about resilience, identity, and pursuing one’s dreams.
Here’s a fascinating tidbit: Ibtihaj Muhammad didn’t just make history on the Olympic stage—she also helped design her own Barbie doll, ensuring it accurately reflected her identity and values. This was a groundbreaking moment in the toy industry, showing that representation truly matters.
If Ibtihaj Muhammad’s story of breaking barriers and making history has inspired you, be sure to subscribe to this podcast and download this episode. For more stories of extraordinary women making waves, follow me on social media and subscribe to my YouTube channel. And remember, there are 97 more incredible women to discover, so don’t miss the next episode. Until then, keep reaching for your dreams, and I’ll see you next time!
