That is, indeed, the question.
Veiling is an age-old practice, adopted in many forms and by many cultures for purposes both spiritual and secular. Often it is considered outdated and barbaric in the West, due on the one hand to racist, xenophobic sentiments, and on the other to genuine, if somewhat clumsy attempts at progressivism.
It is true: the origins of veiling are not quite so gracious. Women were, whether by societal pressure or direct use of force, constrained to cover their heads. Even after this fell out of fashion, or out of the scope of spirituality, it continues in many subtle ways: the wedding veil is a good example, symbolising modesty for the bride that is not enforced for the groom, putting her a step beneath him, shrouding her, mellowing her out, in a sense hiding her on what is meant to be a special, joyful occasion. We need not go into the adjacent purity aspect, but that feeds into the same idea in similarly revolting ways.
There are very few cases in which men observed the same practice, and even then it was seldom so strictly enforced. But under the guise of modesty, lest they shame themselves and their family, women have always had their daily lives policed extremely; and a head covering, even a light one that doesn't cover the whole head, continues to represent those centuries of repression and, many feel, perpetuate it.
Now, let me be clear: I do not believe that any head covering is superior. Whether one covers only symbolically, or covers their head and even their face completely, I consider these equal. To say otherwise would be blatantly culturally insensitive.
Additionally, I don't believe veiling should be a gendered practice.
Now, with all this being said, one would assume the practice is unsalvageable. But many witches adopt veiling regardless. Why is that? Is this not a space where progressive values are promoted? Must we sacrifice our values to attain power? No, of course not.
While magic is very deeply personal, the practice of our contemporaries rests, in many ways, on the shoulders of our ancestors. Tradition is not innately a harmful thing; it is, as with many aspects of the practice, up to personal intent and interpretation. It can be a tool of repression in the wrong hands, or a valuable way for one to bond with their forebears.
As always, one must approach it with an open mind and a readiness to reflect, and most importantly an understanding that no person has the right to force another to do anything. Shame is an especially fickle thing, very difficult to deconstruct and to be free of. One may feel repulsed by the process, particularly if they've been victimized into abiding by tradition. It is, however, a necessary step. You cannot allow the wounds of your past and your people to have a hold on you forever. And there is nothing that you can't break free of, even if it takes years and years. Stay the course. It is always worth it to gaze inwardly and find what parts of you were built by your will and what were thrust upon you, and whether or not you wish to keep them.
But now: what are some benefits of veiling, you may ask?
Well, besides a feeling of connection with one's ancestors, homeland or creed, veils are a great warding tool. The head is a centrum of energy, of course, that we want to keep safe. Veils of different colours, enchanted for different purposes, can be a good, subtle, stylish way to wear your wards as you go about daily life.
The opposite is also true: instead of locking energy out, a veil can let only specific energy in. This is especially useful in rituals or in divination, where you want to receive from a certain force and to keep your thoughts on track. Think of the veil as a strong but gentle hand, locking your attention on the goal and guiding you towards it.
A veil need not be ostentacious, either. A thin scarf, a headband, a hood, or any sort of bonnet, hat or cap are just as good to use as the traditional, larger draping scarves. I'm actually very fond of hats myself.
Are you required to veil for any spell? No. This is up to you alone, and what you feel will best serve you. You also do not need to be constantly veiling unless you wish to do so. It is just another tool. If anyone tells you otherwise, kindly tell them to bugger off.
Are you setting back the rights of any demographics by veiling? Also no. Just as long as you understand why you feel the need to veil and that it's not forced, and that other people are equally entitled to their own decisions on the matter.
Thank you for reading to the end!✨
