It gets even worse, once the ‘gods chosen people’ and ‘dirty heathens’ discussions start. Kids have no filter. I’m speaking of all abrahamic religions and a a good chunk of everything else.

Agreed, and this goes for any religion that does it. But what really grinds my gears about (other) leftists defending this kind of religious expression is, this isn’t something women choose. They’re forced to and groomed from young age to cover themselves. Meanwhile, their brothers, fathers, sons all walk around free to wear shorts, t-shirts, etc. If men had to cover themselves the same way, then sure, at least there would be some level of equality. This is just plain old misogyny that has no place in modern societies.

However, with that said, there’s a real possibility banning head coverings would ultimately hurt girls, instead of helping them. Good education and financial independence and stability in adulthood would give these girls a better and safer way to escape. Like with any other societal problem, it’s complex and can’t be simply “magiced” away.