Present-day society prides itself on cultural diversity; still it tends to look askance at anyone who differs from the norm. Ask Americans of color, who cannot conceal their racial origins; or German Americans, who anglicized their names during World War I; or Japanese Americans, who were packed off to internment camps during World War II.

Unfortunately, as long as Ms. Baqi-Aziz proclaims her religion by wearing khimar, she will probably continue to experience prejudice, because she looks different from the norm. There may be some comfort, however, in the fact that, as time goes by, the norm will likely change.

Edith P. Lewis, RN