The Human Rights Commission in Quebec is seeking $13,000 in compensation for the family of a 12-year-old girl who was expelled from karate class for wearing a hijab.

Documents from the commission show that the girl still feels she needs to justify her choice to wear it.

The ruling stated: "On their part, the plaintiffs felt a sense of injustice and exclusion from the defendants, and they still feel concerned about the effects of the disputed situation on their daughter."

For 42 years, George Manoli has taught martial arts and karate. He has competed on behalf of Canada in karate and has female students who wear the hijab, which he says has never been a problem at all.

Manoli said: "We just make adjustments. I mean, we had more pins, or whatever, so we made the adjustments; you just have to adapt according to any problem you face. But that shouldn't be a reason to say, 'You can't do that.'

However, according to the ruling, a 12-year-old girl was expelled from her class for wearing one. Her instructor at Karate Auto Défense Lamarre questioned her choice and told her that unless she removed it, she would not be able to participate.

The teacher explained that due to the philosophy of karate, students must wear the same uniform and that wearing a hijab would not be allowed in her dojo.

The girl left in tears.

However, according to Karate Canada, the national association representing the sport in the country, head coverings are permitted, and they shared a photo from a recent tournament held in Laval where one athlete wore one.

The organization stated in a statement: "The Canadian karate organization has taken a leadership role... in petitioning the World Karate Federation to allow athletes to wear head coverings."

"The World Karate Federation has agreed to welcome the use of the hijab in competition."

It also specified that the concerned dojo is not part of its organization.

According to the Canadian Council of Muslim Women, this type of incident can be "extremely painful" and can have lasting effects.

Shahin Ashraf, a board member, stated: "I can imagine a 12-year-old girl being reprimanded in this way because she joined the sport because she loved it. It’s time for people to stand up for their rights, you know, it’s a fundamental human right."

Karate Autodefense Lamarre declined a request for an interview from CTV News on Friday.

The girl found another dojo where she could train and only after ensuring her choice would not be a problem.

Manoli said: "We are here to encourage children in particular... to keep doing it for as long as possible," emphasizing that training should be open to everyone.