Converted to Islam, Remained Progressive - Not an Oxymoron

My Saudi scarf given to me by a dear friend

I'm progressive, and for those that know me, unapologetically so. However, I often find myself chagrined when I meet other Muslims and they look at me queerly when I tell them I accepted Islam several years ago. She's white. She's a convert (revert). She's NOT wearing hijab??? Why is it that I am expected to tow the traditional line because I used to be Christian? Why am I villianized for being a progressive? And why do I feel guilty that I am not meeting up to their expectations? (although I don't try real hard to... My ultimate concern is with Allah, not what other people think of me)

anecdote: In the spring of 2011, I spoke on a panel of converts for our Islam Awareness Week at the university I attend. I was one of three. To my right was a gentleman that converted through the Nation of Islam. To my left was a woman that converted through marriage. He was dressed without any religious attire (normal American casual dress clothes). She was in abaya and hijab. Sitting in the middle was me, regular clothes, hijab free.

The woman on my left explained to the audience that when she teaches she often get stares and she says to herself, "yes, this is what a Muslim woman looks like". I was slightly offended. When she finished, I stood up and said, "I respect what you said, but THIS is also what a Muslim woman looks like".

Still, I always find myself a bit awkward when meeting other Muslims, especially women. I have been told too many times that I wasn't "Muslim" enough. Thank God I found a community with which to belong: Muslims for Progressive Values. Find them on Facebook.

Elhamdulelah.