From an early age we are often taught to obey our parents and we develop a fear of disappointing them through disobedience. When a person becomes ‘of age’ the realization sets in that accountability is not to one’s parents, but to their Creator. Allah teaches us through the Story of Luqman: We enjoined upon humanity to be good to his parents. His mother carried him in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents, for unto Me is the final destination. If they strive to make you associate with Me that for which you have no knowledge, do not obey them; but behave with them in the world kindly, and accompany them in the world with good conduct and follow the path of him who turns to Me in repentance and in obedience. Then to Me will be your return, and I shall tell you what you used to do (31:14-15). This same concept is repeated in Surah Al-Ankabut (29), Verse 8. The interpreters of the Qu’ranic verses agree that these verses command humans to obey their parents when they command good but to disobey them if what they ask opposes Allah and/or His Messenger.

So, in answer to your question – when you decided, of your own volition, to don the hijab then your accountability is strictly to your Creator, Allah. When your parents ask you to disobey Allah by removing a portion of, or the whole of, your hijab then you are permitted to disobey them. Seek solace and strength through du’a and remain steadfast in your conviction, knowing that in disobeying your parents you are actually obeying Allah. It may help to share with your parents your reasons for choosing to wear the hijab and ask for their support in obeying Allah. Further, in terms of how to make them happy, which is an awesome mindset to have, obey them in all other matters. Follow the second part of the verse mentioned above – spend time with them, help them with household chores or taking care of siblings, or go shopping with them.