Lizaj,
I don’t necessarily think Ataturk placed a ban on the veil with the intent to liberate women. He banned the fez too. I think he wanted to disengage religion from politics, and westernize his country.
Having said that, I am totally TOTALLY against banning the veil from universities. I think it marginalizes a large percentage of the population, it places uncomfortable choices on young women, and frankly I find it condescending and elitist.
On my last trip to Egypt, I decided I would cover up outside the hotel, especially when visiting Arab neighborhoods (as opposed to tourist areas). I don’t particularly like it, but it is not a big deal, and I figured it is an easy way to show my respect for the culture.
I found that women came up to me and chatted a lot more, and often paid me compliments. I’ve heard that you get better bargains at the shops, when you are covered, but I really have no idea…
