Lady Liberty Needs Her Laiciteof Space and Mixiteof Mind
This paper examines issues surrounding the "veil debate" in France. It summarizes that France asserts the principle of "laicite", which requires a neutral public space where individual characteristics and religious traditions are abstracted. This allows for the peaceful coexistence of different religions. However, critics argue that laicite is being used to specifically target the Muslim population and preserve a mythical French identity. The debate also touches on ideas of femininity and the role of women, with some arguing that veils oppress women while others see it as a personal choice. Overall, the paper aims to analyze how concepts of French identity, secularism, and treatment of religious
A FORUM: DEMOCRACY AND RELIGION Back to the questioneurope_in_israel
The French Embassy, French Institute of Israel, Israeli newspaper Haaretz, and French radio station France Culture are hosting a three-day forum on "Democracy and Religion" from June 5-7 at the Habima Theater in Tel Aviv. [The forum] will bring together philosophers, religious leaders, academics, writers, journalists, and artists from France and Israel to discuss issues of secularism, national identity, and the relationship between democracy and religion in both countries. Over 100 people from France and Israel are scheduled to participate in panels and discussions over the three days.
Birgit Sauer - Conflicts over values: the issue of Moslem headscarvesARGE Bildungsmanagement
The document discusses conflicts over Muslim headscarves in Europe. It begins by providing context on increasing Muslim immigration to Western European countries and rising Islamophobia. This has led to conflicts over how liberal democracies should deal with religious and cultural differences, as seen through debates over regulating Muslim headscarves. Regulations vary across European countries, with some banning headscarves in public spaces while others tolerate them. The document then analyzes France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria's differing approaches to governing the headscarf issue based on factors like their immigration/integration regimes, state-church relations, and political cultures.
This document provides an instructional plan for a 6th grade social studies unit on modern Canada. The unit focuses on Quebec's independence movement, and how French and English cultures have influenced Canadian languages and religions. It will also examine Canada's system of government. The unit includes standards on European contact in Canada, contemporary issues in Canada, forms of government, and the structure of Canada's national government. A balanced assessment plan is outlined to measure student understanding.
This document provides an overview of publicly funded Islamic education programs in 9 Western countries. It finds that approaches vary significantly based on each country's political and historical context. Some countries like Germany and Austria offer Islamic religious education in public schools, while others like the UK and Sweden teach about Islam academically. France and the US do not provide religious education in schools. Despite differences, the document recommends 3 good practices: 1) high academic standards for teacher training programs, 2) fact-based textbooks, and 3) international exchange to improve practices. Publicly funded Islamic education lies at the intersection of debates around religious freedom, integration, and countering Islamophobia.
What makes Muslims feel French? (Social Forces)UNCEurope
This document analyzes factors that influence how Muslims in France identify nationally. It hypothesizes that religiosity may lead Muslims to identify less as French, but explores alternative explanations like socioeconomic status, social networks, and immigrant integration. The document presents data from the Trajectories and Origins survey to test these hypotheses and better understand Muslim identification in France.
France has experienced an increase in religious diversity over the past century. While Catholicism remains the majority religion, Islam has become the second largest religion in the country with approximately 4 million followers. Other religions with a significant presence include Buddhism, Judaism, and Protestantism. Secularism is a fundamental principle of the French Republic, requiring neutrality of the state and freedom of religion. However, debates have emerged regarding certain religious practices and symbols in public spaces and schools. In response, France has passed laws reaffirming secularism while also supporting education about different religious cultures.
A FORUM: DEMOCRACY AND RELIGION Back to the questioneurope_in_israel
The French Embassy, French Institute of Israel, Israeli newspaper Haaretz, and French radio station France Culture are hosting a three-day forum on "Democracy and Religion" from June 5-7 at the Habima Theater in Tel Aviv. [The forum] will bring together philosophers, religious leaders, academics, writers, journalists, and artists from France and Israel to discuss issues of secularism, national identity, and the relationship between democracy and religion in both countries. Over 100 people from France and Israel are scheduled to participate in panels and discussions over the three days.
Birgit Sauer - Conflicts over values: the issue of Moslem headscarvesARGE Bildungsmanagement
The document discusses conflicts over Muslim headscarves in Europe. It begins by providing context on increasing Muslim immigration to Western European countries and rising Islamophobia. This has led to conflicts over how liberal democracies should deal with religious and cultural differences, as seen through debates over regulating Muslim headscarves. Regulations vary across European countries, with some banning headscarves in public spaces while others tolerate them. The document then analyzes France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria's differing approaches to governing the headscarf issue based on factors like their immigration/integration regimes, state-church relations, and political cultures.
This document provides an instructional plan for a 6th grade social studies unit on modern Canada. The unit focuses on Quebec's independence movement, and how French and English cultures have influenced Canadian languages and religions. It will also examine Canada's system of government. The unit includes standards on European contact in Canada, contemporary issues in Canada, forms of government, and the structure of Canada's national government. A balanced assessment plan is outlined to measure student understanding.
This document provides an overview of publicly funded Islamic education programs in 9 Western countries. It finds that approaches vary significantly based on each country's political and historical context. Some countries like Germany and Austria offer Islamic religious education in public schools, while others like the UK and Sweden teach about Islam academically. France and the US do not provide religious education in schools. Despite differences, the document recommends 3 good practices: 1) high academic standards for teacher training programs, 2) fact-based textbooks, and 3) international exchange to improve practices. Publicly funded Islamic education lies at the intersection of debates around religious freedom, integration, and countering Islamophobia.
What makes Muslims feel French? (Social Forces)UNCEurope
This document analyzes factors that influence how Muslims in France identify nationally. It hypothesizes that religiosity may lead Muslims to identify less as French, but explores alternative explanations like socioeconomic status, social networks, and immigrant integration. The document presents data from the Trajectories and Origins survey to test these hypotheses and better understand Muslim identification in France.
France has experienced an increase in religious diversity over the past century. While Catholicism remains the majority religion, Islam has become the second largest religion in the country with approximately 4 million followers. Other religions with a significant presence include Buddhism, Judaism, and Protestantism. Secularism is a fundamental principle of the French Republic, requiring neutrality of the state and freedom of religion. However, debates have emerged regarding certain religious practices and symbols in public spaces and schools. In response, France has passed laws reaffirming secularism while also supporting education about different religious cultures.
Dialogue with Islam: Facing the Challenge of Muslim Integration in France, Ne...thinkingeurope2011
This document summarizes a paper about the challenges facing Western European countries in developing policies regarding Islam and Muslim immigrants. It describes the main challenges as the mismatch between Islamic religious structures and Western legal systems, difficulties accommodating various religious obligations, and lack of integration among some Muslim populations. It then provides an overview of the policies and debates around these issues in France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The key topics discussed are the separation of church and state, representation of Islamic leadership, integration and social cohesion, and reconciling Islamic and Western values.
Under Napoleon, France experienced significant reforms in several areas:
1) Napoleon established a new education system with primary, secondary, and technical schools, emphasizing obedience and military values.
2) He created the Napoleonic Code which established equality before the law and trial by jury while also restricting women's rights.
3) Napoleon crowned himself Emperor and gained control of the Catholic Church, although he failed to establish lasting democratic reforms and restricted free speech.
France and the U.S. have different school systems. France's system has 4 parts and spends more than the U.S., which has either 3 or 4 parts depending on if pre-school is included. Graduation rates are about 80% in France and 70% in the U.S. France aims to keep religion out of schools, unlike some U.S. schools that offer religion classes. Both countries use standardized tests but France has the Baccalauréat exam while the U.S. uses the ACT and SAT.
This dissertation analyzes the changing policy of the French Communist Party (PCF) towards Catholics from 1934 to 1938. Specifically, it examines the PCF's "outstretched hand" appeal to Catholics in 1936, called "la main tendue", in which party leader Maurice Thorez urged French Catholics to unite against fascism. The dissertation aims to determine if this represented an ideological evolution for the PCF or a tactical appeal, and whether it helped expand PCF membership. It draws on Communist and Catholic newspapers from the time period and secondary sources to shed light on this important dialogue between two large groups in France during a period of political instability in the 1930s.
This document discusses state religions and secular states. It defines a state religion as a religious body or creed officially endorsed by the state, though the state is not necessarily a theocracy. State religions vary in the degree of state backing and support they receive. Some communist states sponsor official state religions to prevent alternate sources of authority. A secular state does not favor any particular religion and follows civil rather than religious laws. The document provides examples of state religions and policies in different countries and eras.
In early modern France, there was conflict between Catholic and Protestant noble families over who would succeed the throne. Henry III was killed, allowing Henry of Navarre to take the throne as Henry IV, but he had to convert to Catholicism to gain acceptance from the predominantly Catholic city of Paris. Henry IV then issued the Edict of Nantes in 1598, granting religious toleration and rights to Huguenots in an attempt to end the civil wars over religion that had plagued France.
CONSTITUTIONAL SECULARISM AND FREEDOM OF RELIGION IN NIGERIA; ANALYSIS OF ASI...Russel Eraga
This document provides an analysis of the case Asiyat Abdulakareem & Ors v. Lagos State Government & Ors, which concerned a uniform regulation banning the use of head coverings (hijabs) in public schools in Lagos State. The document examines concepts related to constitutional secularism and the right to freedom of religion. It discusses how rights can be justifiably limited under a secular constitution, drawing on comparative analyses from other jurisdictions. The goal is to analyze the grounds for limiting the manifestation of religious beliefs in public schools based on this case from Nigeria.
French politics in the early modern period was dominated by religious tensions between Catholics and Protestants vying for power. Henry III was killed so that either the Catholic Guise family or the Protestant Bourbon family could take the throne. Henry IV assumed the throne as a Protestant but had to convert to Catholicism to gain entry to Paris and acceptance from its largely Catholic citizens. He issued the Edict of Nantes in 1598, granting Protestants the right to practice their religion without persecution and arm Protestant cities. The Edict was important because it helped ease tensions after multiple civil wars and persecutions over religion in France.
World Religion - EndTime Magazine - May/June 2015miscott57
It is prophesied that, just before the Second Coming, a one-world religion will be established, demanding the allegiance of every person on earth. Unbeknownst
to many, the formation of this entity has been in the works for years, with great strides taken over the last several months.
It will be a false religion of which true Christians will never want to be a part.
Gilbert Ryle adalah filosof Inggris abad ke-20 yang mempengaruhi filsafat bahasa. Ia membedakan penggunaan bahasa sehari-hari dan penggunaan istilah secara teknis, serta membedakan disposisi dan peristiwa dalam analisis bahasa. Pemikirannya dipengaruhi Wittgenstein dalam analisis bahasa sehari-hari berdasarkan prinsip-prinsip logika.
The document is a dissertation that examines whether religion has a place in a secular public sphere and the effects of its exclusion or inclusion on achieving equality. It discusses two approaches to secularism - "aggressive secularism" which excludes religion from the public sphere, and "open secularism" which prioritizes religious accommodation. The dissertation will analyze these approaches in light of cases from France and Canada to argue that excluding religious influence from the public sphere best achieves equality.
This document provides an introduction and summary of Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas's book "Islam and Secularism". The book explores the contemporary Western Christian background, defines key terms like secularization and secularism, examines the concept of religion and foundations of ethics in Islam, discusses the Muslim dilemma regarding secularization, and calls for the dewesternization of knowledge. The book was originally intended to intellectually prepare emerging Muslims to thoughtfully address the forces of secularization and make necessary changes to thinking still influenced by bewilderment and self-doubt. It emphasizes that the challenge is primarily intellectual in nature and positive resistance requires strengthening knowledge based on truth.
History of Canada- Exploration, Colonization, & Changes in Poweresample458
The First Nations people crossed the Bering Land Bridge and settled in Canada over 12,000 years ago. The Inuit are one of the First Nations still living in Canada today, notably in the territory of Nunavut. Europeans first arrived in Canada in 1000 CE as Norse settlers but later abandoned the settlement. John Cabot claimed eastern Canada for England in 1497. French explorer Jacques Cartier claimed the area along the St. Lawrence River for France in 1534, later establishing Quebec City in 1608. Britain defeated France in the French and Indian War, gaining control of Canada through the 1763 Treaty of Paris. Canada's increasing cultural diversity led to its confederation as a self-governing dominion within
http://www.tomrichey.net
The French Wars of Religion were a series of armed conflicts between French Catholics and Huguenots (Calvinists) in the sixteenth century. The Catholic faction was led by Catherine de Medici and the Huguenots were led by Henry of Navarre, who would later become Henry IV of France. Upon becoming king, Henry converted to Catholicism ("Paris is worth a Mass.") and issued the Edict of Nantes, which granted Huguenots limited toleration and rights to practice their religion openly in certain cities.
Secularism refers to the separation of government and religion where no religion is endorsed or favored. It means individuals have the freedom to choose their own religious beliefs or non-beliefs without interference from the government. Secularism draws from ideas in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy as well as Enlightenment thinkers and aims to modernize society by removing religious influence from laws and policies. Supporters argue it protects religious minorities and enhances democracy.
iSee a revolutionary call to begin seeing "Reality" of you and others
This is the visual presentation so it is a glimpse
Full presentation with notes o be shared soon
iSee is a part of the i project
Created, developed, designed and presented by Master Trainer Bayan-Sophia Mohammed Walid Qteishat Al Hussain
Thanks to artists like Michael Jackson and Ricky Martin who transcended boundaries and blocks to create a brighter "Bigger PIcture"
The Holistic Rebirth Workshop
When: Sep 25th, 26th,& 27th 2014
Where: Maadi / Cairo – Egypt
This document includes the following:
- Main Objectives
- Main topics to be covered
- Methodology
- Main Benefits
- Main Ideator & Facilitator
- Speakers of Honor
- Fees & Registration
Main Objectives:
- How to just “Be”
- How to let go
- Who are you?
- What is your Identity?
- The Secrets of the Secret
- Y.O.U. Your Own Universe
- The Scale of Justice
- SOL
- The Symphony, Song,
- Script of Your Life
- The Alchemy of Oneness
- The Matrix of Your Mind; Your Life
- Life Mapping
- Inception & Symbolism
- From Intention to Manifestation
- What kind of meditation do you need?
- Karma & Dharma
- The Alchemy of Oneness
A powerful pilgrimage that dives in the deepest areas of your soul, lifts the veils of The challenges and pains to reveal the lessons behind them. Sets the compass of your life towards your soul’s purpose, and equips your ship with the necessary tools to know how to adjust the sails.
Main topics to be covered:
- Individual and Collective Energy,
- Quantum Physics
- Analytical and Behavioral Psychology
- Symbolism
- Yoga and Meditation
- Sacred Music and Geometry
- Western, Jyotish , Lal Kitab and Arabic Astrology
- Numerology
- The Science of Al Jafr
- Kabbalah
- The Grand Cardinal Cross (New World Order)
- Sacred Texts references
- Life Mapping
Methodology:
- Simulations
- Drama and Music
- Group Exercises and Activities
- Gamification
- Speakers of Honor
Participants will be able to develop thorough understanding, awareness and consciousness for a full Holistic Rebirth.
Main Benefits:
By the end of the workshop (including the One-on-One Coaching Session) participants will:
- Develop a quantum leap in their awareness and ascend to higher levels of consciousness
- Would develop their own “Life Map” manual including all the information they find out about themselves,
a. Astrological map (Western. Jyotish and Lal Kitab)
b. How to balance their planets
c. Archetype
d. Sacred higher self
e. Soul mission
f. Career or Work Compass
g. Identified blockages
h. Spotted dark shadows
i. Soul mate resonance
j. The Musical “Pattern” of the trends of their lives
k. Their name meaning, numerical and
esoteric value according the science of
Al Jafr, Numerology, Kabbalah and others
l. How the “Grand Cardinal Cross” and
the New World Order is affecting and the
mechanisms to know how to balance and
harmonize
m. Would develop the knowledge and the skills of
How to enter portals of their consciousness for
“Inception” and how to use Symbolism
n. How to manage the “Purification” and the
“Healing” Process
- Would have in-depth knowledge of the Matrix of
the mind and how it created and shapes their reality
- Would awaken their witness and unlock their full potential
- Would empower their “Associa
Elmeedan - Where Dreams Come True
The First Social Network for Starting, Backing, Funding and Growing Projects.
In Elmeedan everyone UNITES to develop ideas into projects:
Celebrities become Ambassadors
Professionals become Mentors and Coaches
Help becomes online learning courses and live creative learning sessions
YOU can have backers for your project as volunteers, or as partners
Instead of waiting for one or a few entities to fund your project you can have everyone funding your project through crowd funding.
www.elmeedan.com
The document summarizes Bayan Waleed's profile and her company One International. It provides an overview of Bayan's experience in management consulting and training. It then describes One International's services in creative human capital development, art and media production, social media marketing, and public development. The document outlines Bayan's upcoming creative learning session, which will explore intersections between arts, culture, social change and economy using music, poetry, and a case study of One International's Onestival project.
The Onestival calls for Youth Empowerment through Creative Learning and Online Competition through Art and Filmmaking and ultimately leads to a Film and Visual Media Festival.
Stemming from the essence of the Egyptian Revolution, the Onestival beats through the heart of Social Media in a creative, artistic and passionate infinite ripple.
The Onestival leads, aligns and integrates all efforts at the individual and institutional levels towards the reconstruction of Egypt with a solid commitment that will, once again, inspire the world.
Dialogue with Islam: Facing the Challenge of Muslim Integration in France, Ne...thinkingeurope2011
This document summarizes a paper about the challenges facing Western European countries in developing policies regarding Islam and Muslim immigrants. It describes the main challenges as the mismatch between Islamic religious structures and Western legal systems, difficulties accommodating various religious obligations, and lack of integration among some Muslim populations. It then provides an overview of the policies and debates around these issues in France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The key topics discussed are the separation of church and state, representation of Islamic leadership, integration and social cohesion, and reconciling Islamic and Western values.
Under Napoleon, France experienced significant reforms in several areas:
1) Napoleon established a new education system with primary, secondary, and technical schools, emphasizing obedience and military values.
2) He created the Napoleonic Code which established equality before the law and trial by jury while also restricting women's rights.
3) Napoleon crowned himself Emperor and gained control of the Catholic Church, although he failed to establish lasting democratic reforms and restricted free speech.
France and the U.S. have different school systems. France's system has 4 parts and spends more than the U.S., which has either 3 or 4 parts depending on if pre-school is included. Graduation rates are about 80% in France and 70% in the U.S. France aims to keep religion out of schools, unlike some U.S. schools that offer religion classes. Both countries use standardized tests but France has the Baccalauréat exam while the U.S. uses the ACT and SAT.
This dissertation analyzes the changing policy of the French Communist Party (PCF) towards Catholics from 1934 to 1938. Specifically, it examines the PCF's "outstretched hand" appeal to Catholics in 1936, called "la main tendue", in which party leader Maurice Thorez urged French Catholics to unite against fascism. The dissertation aims to determine if this represented an ideological evolution for the PCF or a tactical appeal, and whether it helped expand PCF membership. It draws on Communist and Catholic newspapers from the time period and secondary sources to shed light on this important dialogue between two large groups in France during a period of political instability in the 1930s.
This document discusses state religions and secular states. It defines a state religion as a religious body or creed officially endorsed by the state, though the state is not necessarily a theocracy. State religions vary in the degree of state backing and support they receive. Some communist states sponsor official state religions to prevent alternate sources of authority. A secular state does not favor any particular religion and follows civil rather than religious laws. The document provides examples of state religions and policies in different countries and eras.
In early modern France, there was conflict between Catholic and Protestant noble families over who would succeed the throne. Henry III was killed, allowing Henry of Navarre to take the throne as Henry IV, but he had to convert to Catholicism to gain acceptance from the predominantly Catholic city of Paris. Henry IV then issued the Edict of Nantes in 1598, granting religious toleration and rights to Huguenots in an attempt to end the civil wars over religion that had plagued France.
CONSTITUTIONAL SECULARISM AND FREEDOM OF RELIGION IN NIGERIA; ANALYSIS OF ASI...Russel Eraga
This document provides an analysis of the case Asiyat Abdulakareem & Ors v. Lagos State Government & Ors, which concerned a uniform regulation banning the use of head coverings (hijabs) in public schools in Lagos State. The document examines concepts related to constitutional secularism and the right to freedom of religion. It discusses how rights can be justifiably limited under a secular constitution, drawing on comparative analyses from other jurisdictions. The goal is to analyze the grounds for limiting the manifestation of religious beliefs in public schools based on this case from Nigeria.
French politics in the early modern period was dominated by religious tensions between Catholics and Protestants vying for power. Henry III was killed so that either the Catholic Guise family or the Protestant Bourbon family could take the throne. Henry IV assumed the throne as a Protestant but had to convert to Catholicism to gain entry to Paris and acceptance from its largely Catholic citizens. He issued the Edict of Nantes in 1598, granting Protestants the right to practice their religion without persecution and arm Protestant cities. The Edict was important because it helped ease tensions after multiple civil wars and persecutions over religion in France.
World Religion - EndTime Magazine - May/June 2015miscott57
It is prophesied that, just before the Second Coming, a one-world religion will be established, demanding the allegiance of every person on earth. Unbeknownst
to many, the formation of this entity has been in the works for years, with great strides taken over the last several months.
It will be a false religion of which true Christians will never want to be a part.
Gilbert Ryle adalah filosof Inggris abad ke-20 yang mempengaruhi filsafat bahasa. Ia membedakan penggunaan bahasa sehari-hari dan penggunaan istilah secara teknis, serta membedakan disposisi dan peristiwa dalam analisis bahasa. Pemikirannya dipengaruhi Wittgenstein dalam analisis bahasa sehari-hari berdasarkan prinsip-prinsip logika.
The document is a dissertation that examines whether religion has a place in a secular public sphere and the effects of its exclusion or inclusion on achieving equality. It discusses two approaches to secularism - "aggressive secularism" which excludes religion from the public sphere, and "open secularism" which prioritizes religious accommodation. The dissertation will analyze these approaches in light of cases from France and Canada to argue that excluding religious influence from the public sphere best achieves equality.
This document provides an introduction and summary of Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas's book "Islam and Secularism". The book explores the contemporary Western Christian background, defines key terms like secularization and secularism, examines the concept of religion and foundations of ethics in Islam, discusses the Muslim dilemma regarding secularization, and calls for the dewesternization of knowledge. The book was originally intended to intellectually prepare emerging Muslims to thoughtfully address the forces of secularization and make necessary changes to thinking still influenced by bewilderment and self-doubt. It emphasizes that the challenge is primarily intellectual in nature and positive resistance requires strengthening knowledge based on truth.
History of Canada- Exploration, Colonization, & Changes in Poweresample458
The First Nations people crossed the Bering Land Bridge and settled in Canada over 12,000 years ago. The Inuit are one of the First Nations still living in Canada today, notably in the territory of Nunavut. Europeans first arrived in Canada in 1000 CE as Norse settlers but later abandoned the settlement. John Cabot claimed eastern Canada for England in 1497. French explorer Jacques Cartier claimed the area along the St. Lawrence River for France in 1534, later establishing Quebec City in 1608. Britain defeated France in the French and Indian War, gaining control of Canada through the 1763 Treaty of Paris. Canada's increasing cultural diversity led to its confederation as a self-governing dominion within
http://www.tomrichey.net
The French Wars of Religion were a series of armed conflicts between French Catholics and Huguenots (Calvinists) in the sixteenth century. The Catholic faction was led by Catherine de Medici and the Huguenots were led by Henry of Navarre, who would later become Henry IV of France. Upon becoming king, Henry converted to Catholicism ("Paris is worth a Mass.") and issued the Edict of Nantes, which granted Huguenots limited toleration and rights to practice their religion openly in certain cities.
Secularism refers to the separation of government and religion where no religion is endorsed or favored. It means individuals have the freedom to choose their own religious beliefs or non-beliefs without interference from the government. Secularism draws from ideas in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy as well as Enlightenment thinkers and aims to modernize society by removing religious influence from laws and policies. Supporters argue it protects religious minorities and enhances democracy.
iSee a revolutionary call to begin seeing "Reality" of you and others
This is the visual presentation so it is a glimpse
Full presentation with notes o be shared soon
iSee is a part of the i project
Created, developed, designed and presented by Master Trainer Bayan-Sophia Mohammed Walid Qteishat Al Hussain
Thanks to artists like Michael Jackson and Ricky Martin who transcended boundaries and blocks to create a brighter "Bigger PIcture"
The Holistic Rebirth Workshop
When: Sep 25th, 26th,& 27th 2014
Where: Maadi / Cairo – Egypt
This document includes the following:
- Main Objectives
- Main topics to be covered
- Methodology
- Main Benefits
- Main Ideator & Facilitator
- Speakers of Honor
- Fees & Registration
Main Objectives:
- How to just “Be”
- How to let go
- Who are you?
- What is your Identity?
- The Secrets of the Secret
- Y.O.U. Your Own Universe
- The Scale of Justice
- SOL
- The Symphony, Song,
- Script of Your Life
- The Alchemy of Oneness
- The Matrix of Your Mind; Your Life
- Life Mapping
- Inception & Symbolism
- From Intention to Manifestation
- What kind of meditation do you need?
- Karma & Dharma
- The Alchemy of Oneness
A powerful pilgrimage that dives in the deepest areas of your soul, lifts the veils of The challenges and pains to reveal the lessons behind them. Sets the compass of your life towards your soul’s purpose, and equips your ship with the necessary tools to know how to adjust the sails.
Main topics to be covered:
- Individual and Collective Energy,
- Quantum Physics
- Analytical and Behavioral Psychology
- Symbolism
- Yoga and Meditation
- Sacred Music and Geometry
- Western, Jyotish , Lal Kitab and Arabic Astrology
- Numerology
- The Science of Al Jafr
- Kabbalah
- The Grand Cardinal Cross (New World Order)
- Sacred Texts references
- Life Mapping
Methodology:
- Simulations
- Drama and Music
- Group Exercises and Activities
- Gamification
- Speakers of Honor
Participants will be able to develop thorough understanding, awareness and consciousness for a full Holistic Rebirth.
Main Benefits:
By the end of the workshop (including the One-on-One Coaching Session) participants will:
- Develop a quantum leap in their awareness and ascend to higher levels of consciousness
- Would develop their own “Life Map” manual including all the information they find out about themselves,
a. Astrological map (Western. Jyotish and Lal Kitab)
b. How to balance their planets
c. Archetype
d. Sacred higher self
e. Soul mission
f. Career or Work Compass
g. Identified blockages
h. Spotted dark shadows
i. Soul mate resonance
j. The Musical “Pattern” of the trends of their lives
k. Their name meaning, numerical and
esoteric value according the science of
Al Jafr, Numerology, Kabbalah and others
l. How the “Grand Cardinal Cross” and
the New World Order is affecting and the
mechanisms to know how to balance and
harmonize
m. Would develop the knowledge and the skills of
How to enter portals of their consciousness for
“Inception” and how to use Symbolism
n. How to manage the “Purification” and the
“Healing” Process
- Would have in-depth knowledge of the Matrix of
the mind and how it created and shapes their reality
- Would awaken their witness and unlock their full potential
- Would empower their “Associa
Elmeedan - Where Dreams Come True
The First Social Network for Starting, Backing, Funding and Growing Projects.
In Elmeedan everyone UNITES to develop ideas into projects:
Celebrities become Ambassadors
Professionals become Mentors and Coaches
Help becomes online learning courses and live creative learning sessions
YOU can have backers for your project as volunteers, or as partners
Instead of waiting for one or a few entities to fund your project you can have everyone funding your project through crowd funding.
www.elmeedan.com
The document summarizes Bayan Waleed's profile and her company One International. It provides an overview of Bayan's experience in management consulting and training. It then describes One International's services in creative human capital development, art and media production, social media marketing, and public development. The document outlines Bayan's upcoming creative learning session, which will explore intersections between arts, culture, social change and economy using music, poetry, and a case study of One International's Onestival project.
The Onestival calls for Youth Empowerment through Creative Learning and Online Competition through Art and Filmmaking and ultimately leads to a Film and Visual Media Festival.
Stemming from the essence of the Egyptian Revolution, the Onestival beats through the heart of Social Media in a creative, artistic and passionate infinite ripple.
The Onestival leads, aligns and integrates all efforts at the individual and institutional levels towards the reconstruction of Egypt with a solid commitment that will, once again, inspire the world.
The status of education in the Arab world is currently echoing an alarming siren. Though there have been several notable achievements and many reforms in public policy, they mainly fall under the “engineering” of education and fail to develop the educational tool for freedom and development. For the Arab world to be able to catch up with the knowledge revolution and succeed in creating a strong knowledge society, it needs to develop a holistic creative multi-player solution to transcend the eminent gaps and take quantum development leaps.
In this paper I will depict the educational scene in the Arab world, highlighting the most dangerous current challenges, spot the light on the achievements that have taken place so far, and accordingly propose an effective solution that integrates all related pillars and the missing links considering the successful model of the European Union’s Creativity and Innovation strategy.
The document discusses various marketing communication topics including advertising, sales promotion, public relations, consumer behavior, and the consumer decision making process. It addresses selecting advertising media, assessing advertising effectiveness, the shift from advertising to sales promotion, trade promotions and consumer sales promotions. It also covers public relations strategies, sponsorship marketing, event marketing, cause-related marketing, and analyzing consumer behavior factors like needs, values, lifestyle, attitudes, and decision making at the individual and household level.
This document covers various topics related to product and brand management, including making product decisions, branding characteristics and strategies, packaging, labeling, the product life cycle, and managing a product portfolio. It also discusses advertising and promotion, the tools and participants in marketing communications, integrated marketing communications, and setting objectives and budgets for advertising. The document is a series of presentations by Bayan Shadaideh on sales and marketing management.
The Nuclear Media Weapon: The Case of Creating Mr. and mrs. islamophobiaBayan Waleed Shadaideh
The document discusses the power of media in creating stereotypes like "Mr. and Mrs. Islamophobia" and fueling hate crimes against Muslims. It notes that after 9/11, the media framed Muslims as "terrorists" and veiled women as "oppressed", ignoring nuance. This has led to a rise in hate crimes in Western nations. Experts argue that promoting intolerance through one-sided media portrayals threatens human rights and dignity. Educating about various cultures and preventing stereotypical media representations are seen as ways to reduce tensions between civilizations.
The document describes the history surrounding the succession of leadership following the death of the Prophet Muhammad. It tells of the divisions that emerged between those who supported Abu Bakr and those who believed Ali bin Abi Talib should have led as he was appointed by the Prophet. Over time different groups formed, including the Sunnis who followed the elected caliphs, and the Shias who believed in the divine authority of the Imams descended from Ali and Fatima. The letter aims to promote unity among Muslims and a return to the original message of the Prophet.
This document appears to be a presentation on marketing strategies and concepts. It introduces marketing topics like the marketing mix, consumer behavior, marketing research, and more. It also profiles some influential marketing thinkers like Kotler, Porter, and Sen. Additionally, it discusses the evolution of marketing approaches and the exchange process between businesses and customers. The presentation emphasizes understanding marketing from the customer's perspective.
Violating The Rights of The Child; When "Faith" Violates the Faith in Human R...Bayan Waleed Shadaideh
The document discusses the widespread sexual abuse of children by Catholic priests across many countries. It provides statistics on the large number of victims and massive financial costs of the abuse. The author argues that such abuse by religious leaders deeply damages victims' development and mental health, and often leads to problems like substance abuse, domestic violence, and further criminal behavior. While efforts have been made to prevent child abuse, the author says it is still a major global problem enabled by failures to protect children's rights and hold abusers accountable.
One of the most prominent outcomes of the financial crises is the emerging new class of poverty, the people who represented the “wellbeing dream of development” are now poor, and they are mainly Young, Educated and Unemployed!
Though it is without any doubt their right to have their basic human rights attained, they remain framed in a new category of poverty that makes them as they themselves have described it to be “Invisible”.
Jordan-U.S. Investment and Trade Forum: Washington DC, April 19 • New York, A...Bayan Waleed Shadaideh
Under the Patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah II, the Economic and Commerce Bureau of the Embassy
of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and The Jordan Investment Board in cooperation with the U.S.–Jordan
Business Alliance and in strategic partnership with Business Council for International Understanding are
organizing the Jordan–U.S. Investment and Trade Forum road show that will commence in Washington DC on
April 19th, stop in New York on April 21st and conclude in San Francisco on April 23rd, 2010.
This document outlines King Abdullah's vision for political, economic, administrative, and social reform in Jordan. It discusses appointing a new prime minister and cabinet to develop a national agenda focused on reform, modernization, and ensuring prosperity for all Jordanians. The king emphasizes establishing codes of honor for public servants, transparency, and combating corruption. He also stresses the importance of political reform including fair elections and constructive cooperation between the government and parliament. The overall goal is to build a secure and prosperous Jordan for the future through comprehensive reform across all sectors.
1. “In ‘Laicite’ We Trust!”
Unveiling the French Naked Statue of Lady Liberty
By: Bayan Shadaideh
For: Prof. Jocelyne Cesarie
Islam in The West Post 9/11:
Radicalization or Integration?
Harvard University - 2010
2. France has been raising many views and eyebrows with what has been called “The Veil Debate”.
The intimate relationship of the issue of the veil with Islamophobia, oppressed Muslim women,
terrorism and several other tags were pieces of the puzzle that have been coming together
attempting to finally produce the big picture, however it was “Laicite” that represented the final
piece of that jigsaw puzzle that succeeded in unveiling an extremely alarming situation that echoes
cries of fear of losing the French identity and raise (on top of the already raised views and
eyebrows) questions that would reveal the essence of the French naked Statue of Liberty.
What is the distinctive French definition of freedom? Why is it being redefined and asserted now? Why
doesn’t it have tolerance for the Hijab? Why is this called “The Veil Debate” when it actually is not, but
rather a monologue rather than a dialogue, and it reached levels of excluding certain members of the
French society? What are the underlying reasons for fear of losing the French identity that lead to all of
these issues being raised? How are the French converts to Islam contributing to these fears?
Are the decisions France is making harmonious with the European Union Commision’s strategy? Are they
respectful of Human Rights? Why is the U.S.A against them? What are the consequences of this decision and
what is it’s impact on the French society? Is “Laicite-Phobia” in the making now? Is it true that the whole
issue was created and magnified just to have more applause for the French elections?
In this paper I will be zooming in on these issues, and attempt not only to answer the upper mentioned
cloud of questions, but to open the gates for new ones. The “Veil debate” has many dimensions that call for
our utmost attention for it includes ambiguous codes to decipher and reach the depth of the whole matter.
Democracy, liberty, citizenship, freedom and even the individual are currently being redefined and
rediscovered, and this in itself might be the core issue being unveiled!
Introduction
“MAN is born free; and everywhere he is in chains. One thinks himself the master of others, and still
remains a greater slave than they. How did this change come about? I do not know.”1 Rousseau
Though Rousseau Theorized the answers in “The Social Contract”, which France considers to be the laying
foundation for its being an indivisible, secular, democratic and social Republic, this question now enforces itself
upon all of us again and questions how the process ruins the very purpose of the contract.
1
THE SOCIAL CONTRACT” OR PRINCIPLES OF POLITICAL RIGHT by Jean Jacques Rousseau
3. The Statue of Liberty was given as a gift to the United States of America to honor the “Liberty” it has
attained and to send a message to the French that someday France might be able to enjoy that same liberty.
"Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World", Bartholdi (its maker) entitled it, and then France finally got its
freedom. Though we always thought that the Liberty France got is the same that Liberty America realized, and
consequently is the same Liberty we all honor and defend, the Veil debate has succeeded in making us realize that
Liberty is not universal, and has so many faces to show.
Though the Statue of Liberty’s universal message is of hope and freedom for immigrants coming to America
and people seeking freedom around the world, it has given its back to the immigrants in France, and is
adamant to having a totally different look than the one we know.
First and foremost is that she needs a mirror instead of the torch for she would rather “see” her own
reflection rather than constantly raising her hand to “enlighten” the whole world. As Pierre Nora, Editor of
“Sites of Memory” said “It is by means of the State – that is, by its history and policies- that France has
remained aware of itself2”. Secondly is her desire to change her dress for it is not compatible with the
fashion of the “Laicite” decoration of secular liberty she sees in her book, and therefore would much prefer
being naked. And Thirdly is that she demands having a “Monsieur” of Liberty with her on that altar for her
to enjoy feeling and expressing her femininity to him and therefore assure having the “Mixite” required to
certify that it portrays the “Right” manifestation of Liberty it stands for.
This is not a far fetched exaggeration unfortunately, but an asserted and accentuated visual representation
of the several issues that “The Veil Debate” has been unfolding. When Sarkozy announced in June 2009 that
“The Burqa is not welcome in France”, and a law has been issued and approved to fine women wearing the
Burqa accordingly, the world paid attention to the developments of the sequence of events that have been
building up in France against the Muslim Women’s symbolic dress; The Veil. And ever since then this high
note has resonated to echo the many questions and topics touched upon hereby so far.
France has been attempting to emphasize that this decision (or series of decisions) has nothing to do with
Islam as a religion in particular, but it is to preserve the “Secular” French identity. However, the majority of
credible analysts have not been convinced with that argument and they instead reason that “Racism was the
subtext of the headscarf controversy, but secularism was its explicit justification. The law prohibiting
“conspicuous” signs of religious affiliation in public schools was defined above all as a defense of Laicite”3
as
Joan Wallach Scott said in “The Politics of The Veil” and in which he also said “The preservation of mythical
notion of “France” in its many aspects was a driving force in the affair des foulard. The deep psychic investments
revealed by the issue were less about fears of terrorism (there were surely better ways to deal with terrorism than
2
“Why the French Don‟t Like Headscarves” Islam, the State, and Public Space. John R. Browen
3
The Politics of the Veil .Joan Wallach Scott
4. banning the headscarf, some of which were suggested by various commissions) than about defending French
national identity in which the French way of addressing the relations between the sexes was a critical, inviolable
component”4
As a result a microscopic analysis has been launched to re-assert the French identity through the lens of
“The Veil Debate”. The need for recuperating this identity is multifold yet strong enough for the layman to
feel the urgency behind it. We here by, therefore, will be going through the hallways in the sphere of
France’s public space while bearing in mind that this could be a clairvoyant journey that presents us with
several gifts of wisdom to pause at and reflect upon enough to be their guides rather than being blindly
guided by them.
Lady Liberty Needs Her Laiciteof Space and Mixiteof Mind
For Lady Liberty to prevail in The Republic of France she needs to ascertain that Laicite “protects,
privileges, multifunctional social space within which Republican principles could survive and prosper.”5
So,
Laicite is the means by which the “Public Space” is neutralized to practice the Republican principles. The
“State” is the direct owner of the Public and social space for it is the state which is the means of freedom.
Everything and everyone in this “space” should be an active actor of the national community.
Blandine Kriegel (a high state official) explained the importance of “Laicite” to author John Browen by
saying “We hold strongly to the principle of Laicite. We have to place ourselves in the public space, by
abstracting from our individual characteristic, from where we came from, our roots, this is the idea of the
social contract…Here in France each individual has to abstract her/himself from those traditions and
accept the transfer of certain rights to the law, that is the contract; we move from pluralism to unity
through consent…We have to draw the line at personal rights of every individual. These are human rights”.6
To bind all participants of the Republic to the “Social Contract” means that the contract is the center of the
ripple around which all other ripples expand, therefore it is the sanctity of the contract that the system is
striving to protect, and those “Individuals” who are not in perfect alignment will be considered a threat
therefore to Laicite.
President Chirac described Laicite in 2003 as “the privileged site for meeting and exchange, where people
find themselves and can best contribute to the national community. It is the neutrality of the public space
that permits the peaceful coexistence of different religions”
4
The Politics of the Veil .Joan Wallach Scott
5
“Why the French Don’t Like Headscarves” Islam, the State, and Public Space. John R. Browen
6
“Why the French Don’t Like Headscarves” Islam, the State, and Public Space. John R. Browen
5. Since France is “Secular” and “Indivisible” Laicite has to make sure that this is properly manifested in the
Public Space, therefore not any Public display of (any) religion can be apparent not to obstruct this
reflection. In fact the word Religion itself has no existence in French Law, “Le Culte” is the word used which
refers to the “outward expression of the relationship between man and God, which is to be expressed in
three main categories; Mass, Buildings and Teachings.”7 Other than these three “Le Culte” is not to be
expressed; which is the core of the argument against “The Veil” and “The Niqab” as a religious symbol being
expressed in the “Public Space” hindering the flow of Laicite.
“Mixite” is as well of extreme significance to the practice of the “Contract” and it is best understood when
discussed through the argument presented against “The Veil” by the French Government “girls lost their feminine
identity if their bodies couldn‟t be seen. Identity was conferred by men‟s being able to see them as sexual objects.
Feminine Identity depended on male desire; male desire depended on visual simulation.”8
The French identity needs Laicite and Mixite to exist! The criticisms are abundant and the fear of this fear is that
it could expand and feed upon itself, and find other ways and means to protect Laicite and Mixite even when they
stand against the rights of the Human who is in value beyond the “Individual” participant in the contract.
What’s The “Veil” Got To Do With It?
One cannot help but wonder how much does the “Veil” impede the flow of Laicite in the French Public
Space and whether there have been any major direct reasons with urgent concerns that lead to the
eruption of the whole issue, after all there has to be a logical deduction to explain this intense behaviour on
behalf of the French Government.
According to the New York Times “In 2009, the French equivalent of the FBI reported that the
practice of wearing a veil was “marginal.” There appeared to be only 367 women in all of France
who wore the niqab. A second police agency confirmed the initial report. Subsequent work
increased the estimate to a maximum of 2,000 women. With over 30 million women in France the
phenomenon did indeed appear marginal. None of the reports said the women were a danger; no
post office, bank or other institution complained that veiled women were a problem.”9!
7
“Why the French Don’t Like Headscarves” Islam, the State, and Public Space. John R. Browen
8
The Politics of the Veil .Joan Wallach Scott
9 Veiled Arguments By RONALD P. SOKOL.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/15/opinion/15ihtedsokol.html?_r=2&%20ref=muslim_veiling
6. In French “A voile is a veil, and it is nearly always used in the singular, suggesting a uniformity of
garment, and perhaps a uniformity of thinking.” 10 But even if the “Veil” was lost in French
translation enough to cause reminiscence of the pains prior the separation of Church and State, is it
enough a reason for all these actions? And even-though there have been several confirmations that
the rule applies to all religions, why is the emphasis clearly put on Muslims?
“The public ubiquity of crosses and churches could be ignored- for reasons of civil peace, but
ignoring crescents and mosques was more difficult”11 So, it appears to be that investing in the
already harmed impression of Islam can be effectively and politically employed to be used as an
exercise tool for redefining the French Identity as well as serving several other purposes such as
limiting Islam and Muslims from growing in the “Public Space”.
They Are Oppressed; We Believe They Are, Then They Definitely Should Be!
The pre-set judgment is much louder than all the responses to the questions that are only used as
accessories to investigate oppression behind the veil. No statistics are used in these studies and even when
it is lucidly clear that women clarify that they are “Not” oppressed, the government would still see that they
are.
“A decision to wear the veil could never be seen as a reasonable choice while admitting that a few (certain)
girls considered the veil a means of emancipation, the National Assembly study group insisted that many
more (beaucoup) felt it oppressive. There were, needless to say, no statistics offered to back up this
assertion, just anecdotes and the opinions of ‘experts’ who already agreed that a law banning headscarves
was needed” 12
But as sociologists and philosophers argue ‘In all cases it is on welcoming them (the girls in headscarves) to
the secular school that we can help emancipate them, by giving them the means of achieving autonomy… in
sending them away, we condemn them to oppression” 13
Why Don’t They Speak Up, We Are Listening (To Anything That Supports Our Point)
With the decision pre-set as discussed, listening is limited to selective arguments that prove the point,
10
“Why the French Don’t Like Headscarves” Islam, the State, and Public Space. John R. Browen
11
“Why the French Don’t Like Headscarves” Islam, the State, and Public Space. John R. Browen
12
The Politics of the Veil .Joan Wallach Scott
13
The Politics of the Veil .Joan Wallach Scott
7. When it doesn’t, then we simply can say that they are not “defending” themselves.
Saida Kada, the veiled author of „One Veiled, The Other Not‟ is the founder of French Muslim Women in Action
explained the logic behind wearing the veil in Islam “One is a Muslim first, one adheres to a certain philosophy of
life and in this context, one wants to wear the headscarf. The discovery of Islam is marked by a series of steps that
successively fashion your identity by leading you to find equilibrium in your self, in God and with others”14
“For some of the girls interviewed, a spiritual commitment involved submitting oneself not to men or man-made
laws but to God. Through knowledge of God my faith grew and I wanted to wear the veil as a sign of humility” 15
But these voices, no matter how loud and clear, are not to be hear, because France will not be able to see
beyond its set prejudice based on Laicite and Mixite.
A dear friend of mine, Motaz Nasr, is a well renowned artist on the global front, when I asked him why the
Arab and Muslim world doesn’t respond to these issues through art, he said “We did! Through music and
cinema and paintings and everything, they don’t want to listen! And we are sick and tired of being in the
defense seat. It is too demeaning. And look at it this way, with all what is happening now, we know a lot
about them, and they just figured out they know nothing about us. Ironic. No?”
We Wanted To Unveil The Immigrants, Not Veil The Converts!
That hollow sphere which is void of any spiritual practice has been yearning for enrichment and
deeper moral values which is leading to having many converting to Islam. As explained by Kevin
Brice from Swansea University, who has specialised in studying white conversion to Islam, these
women are part of an intriguing trend ‘They seek spirituality, a higher meaning, and tend to be deep
thinkers. The other type of women who turn to Islam are what I call “converts of convenience”.
They’ll assume the trappings of the religion to please their Muslim husband and his family, but
won’t necessarily attend mosque, pray or fast.‟16
Le Parisien newspaper, citing UOIF estimates, said there were 4,000 converts to Islam in the year
2006.17
And the numbers have been rising every year. 25 % of the approximately 2000 French
14
The Politics of the Veil .Joan Wallach Scott
15
The Politics of the Veil .Joan Wallach Scott
16
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1324039/Like-Lauren-Booth-ARE-modern-British-career-women-converting- slam.html?ito=feedsnewsxml#ixzz14NACajyk
17
Source: Reuters FACTBOX-European converts to Islam
8. Muslims who wear a form of full-face veil are ethnically French Muslim converts.18
The young
French Rapper Diam’s (Mélanie Georgiades) has converted to Islam, explaining to the French Press,
“Medicine was not able to heal my soul, so I turned toward religion.”19
As evidently clear the French (and European) women’s converting to Islam, and choosing to be
veiled is just an added exclamation mark to the debate issue, however with these numbers rising
after 9/11, having these events would only stir more attention to converting probably and
therefore France will be “excluding” it’s own “Individuals” who converted from the “Contract” to
Islam!
Laicitephobia!
Fear of “Laicite” has been escalating among Muslims (both immigrants and converts) in France due to the
latest developments. Hate Crimes have reached extreme heights and causing many cries of warning.
“Why are levels of hate crime higher in France than in other EU member states?” is the question
posed for teaching geography in Europe, because it is what any student would ask after looking at
the statistics. “France has the highest levels of hate crime, closely followed by the UK (which
incidentally isn't very good on other indicators either!). Germany has about average levels of hate crime
compared to the EU average. Spain has below average levels of hate crime and Italy has the lowest levels
of all 5 countries”20
.
Some incidents will not be forgotten easily, such as the Muslim graves that desecrated in 2008 “The
graves were in the Muslim section of Notre Dame de Lorette, among France’s largest war
cemeteries, near the northern town of Arras. The dead are mostly from World War I, and the
Muslim graves, representing the dead of colonial armies, are turned toward Mecca.”21 “A pig's head
18
The burqa ban: Liberty by coercion. http://eu.foreignpolicyblogs.com/page/2/
19
http://www.euro-islam.info/2009/10/09/young-french-rapper-diam%E2%80%99s-converts-to-islam/
20
http://www.geographyteachingtoday.org.uk/ks3-resources/resource/geography-the-language-of-europe/le-crime-en-france-crime-in-france/
21
Muslim Graves Desecrated in France http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/07/world/europe/07france.html?_r=3
9. was hung from one headstone and slogans insulting Islam and France's Muslim justice minister
were daubed on other graves”22
The crime’s rates would definitely increase even more after the new “Burqa Ban” contributing to
accentuating “Laicitephobia” for Muslims (immigrants, converts and tourists) in France, and to speculative
fear of this new power that dictates such extreme rules, for what if it expands to focus on other religions
after Islam? After all is it a “secular” public space, so maybe Islam was just the beginning.
What about the European Space? The World’s Space? The Human’s Space?
France is not on a foreign planet in a distant galaxy, it is a part of planet earth and the “Human’s Space”, a
fact that has been recently continuously tested with all the decisions the government has been taking and
proving that France has a unique identity.
As a prominent member of the European Union Commission, France has been proving to be going against
the collective understanding; Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights Thomas Hammarberg
“Those who have argued for a general ban of the burqa and the niqab have not managed to show that these
garments in any way undermine democracy, public safety, order or morals. The fact that a very small
number of women wear such clothing has made proposals in such a direction even less convincing. Nor has
it been possible to prove that these women in general are victims of more gender repression than others.
Those who have been interviewed in the media have presented a diversity of religious, political and
personal arguments for their decision to dress themselves as they do.”23 But then again, maybe France
needs to accentuate it’s identity for fear of being diluted in the European Union.
The United States has as well been against these decisions and made it clear that Washington is in
disagreement with a ban approved by the lower house of France's National Assembly on use of face-
covering Islamic veils in public. "We do not think that you should legislate what people can wear or not
wear associated with their religious beliefs," said State Department spokesman Philip Crowley. 24
And the International Human Rights has definitely been voicing it’s incongruity; "We are against a general
interdiction because under international human rights conventions, nobody should be prevented from
wearing any kind of dress," said Patrick Delouvin, a spokesman for Amnesty International "Women should
not be forced to wear the burqa or niqab in certain countries or forced not to wear it in others," he told
IPS.25
22
French Muslim war graves Defaced http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7333344.stm
23
Burqa Ban May Prove Counter-Productive By A. D. McKenzie http://ipsnews.net/news.asp?idnews=51546
24
US joins criticals of French veil ban http://www.worldbulletin.net/news_detail.php?id=61355
25
Burqa Ban May Prove Counter-Productive By A. D. McKenzie
10. But what France has been reiterating is that according to its own reference of “Liberty” The Human is the
“Individual” who is a member of “Laicite” and has to be in harmony with the “Manifestation” of the
“Contract” as is utterly clarified in Article 10 of the Declaration of Human and Citizen’s Rights “No one may
be persecuted for his opinions, even religious ones, provided that their manifestation doesn’t disturb the
public order established by the law”26
By that France has been recurrently proving it’s individual self apart from the whole world’s public space
which has been knitted through the veil debate.
Is “Laicite” France’s Official Religion?
Defining a Religion is not at all an easy task since scientists haven’t agreed on a particular method for doing
that, however according to the way France defines a religion in order for it to recognize it (though it states
that it doesn’t recognize any religion) is “if it’s followers come together in formal ceremonies, the beliefs
contain universal religious principles, the group had a long existence and it’s activities do not threaten
public order.”27 In this context “Laicite” fits perfectly the identification required for officially recognizing a
religion in France.
Further more Rousseau has addressed it as “Civil Religion” in the “Social Contract”; “a purely civil
profession of faith of which the Sovereign should fix the articles, not exactly as religious dogmas, but as
social sentiments without which a man cannot be a good citizen or a faithful subject. While it can compel no
one to believe them, it can banish from the State whoever does not believe them — it can banish him, not
for impiety, but as an anti-social being, incapable of truly loving the laws and justice, and of sacrificing, at
need, his life to his duty. If any one, after publicly recognising these dogmas, behaves as if he does not
believe them, let him be punished by death: he has committed the worst of all crimes, that of lying before
the law.”28 Which is exactly what the French government is doing; “Banishing” those who are ant-social
beings.
Accordingly France’s Laicite can very easily be defined as a “Religion” which according to it’s roots
in the “Contract” is identified as the “Civil Religion” and with the dynamics of existing all this time
has fit the way France itself recognizes Religions and “Les Cultes”. Therefore people are wondering
26
“Why the French Don‟t Like Headscarves” Islam, the State, and Public Space. John R. Browen
27
“Why the French Don’t Like Headscarves” Islam, the State, and Public Space. John R. Browen
28
Civil Religion. “THE SOCIAL CONTRACT” OR PRINCIPLES OF POLITICAL RIGHT by Jean Jacques Rousseau
11. “Will the French government become a 'Taliban equivalent' in Europe, telling women what they
should or should not wear?"29
Did All of This Happen Just To Have More Applause?
All of this could have been stirred for more votes as many analysts have been confirming, and the
situation has been rippling expansively due to Sarkozy’s yearning for winning the elections. Bowen
helps us to clearly see this the way he described in the “Boston Review”
“The first elections for the new national Islamic organization were held in April of 2003. A week later,
Sarkozy addressed the largest gathering of Muslims ever held in France, the twentieth annual Salon du
Bourget, a four-day fair featuring hundreds of stands filled with Islamic books, computer programs, and
clothing, and speeches by well-known national and, especially, Arab-world speakers, all sponsored by the
largest of the three major French Islamic federations, the Union of French Islamic Organizations. On
Saturday evening, April 19, Sarkozy entered the auditorium, waving to his applauding audience and bathed
in a moving spotlight. He would be the first cabinet minister to address such an assembly, and he took his
place at the podium. After a warm introduction he praised his hosts and stressed the importance of equal
treatment before the law for everyone, regardless of his religion. He mentioned that the war in Iraq “was
not ours.” The audience applauded at each of these remarks. Muslims, it seemed, had found their place in
the Republic. But Sarkozy had been mulling a future run for the presidency, and he had crafted his speech
with a larger audience in mind. Halfway through, he sprang a trap on the Muslim leadership. Muslims must
obey the same laws as everyone else, he reminded the thousands in the audience, and that means the
pictures on their identity cards must be taken with their heads uncovered.”30
Conclusion
Even if the whole “Veil” issue (refusing hereby to calling it “The Veil Debate”) was sparked for wanting
more votes and basking in the spotlight by Sarkozy, it had started way before that but the plot kept on
being thickened until it reached than Burqa Banning threshold. The way it has been dealt with has been
exposing a unique definition of Liberty by which France has been asserting it’s identity. This calls us to be
more aware about the lines between and behind the lines that might be reshaping our universal definitions
of Democracy, Freedom, and Liberty. For even though the original Statue of Liberty is in France, it is in the
sphere of Laicite and Mixite symbolizing something different that what we have assumed.
29
Anti-Islam fascism on rise in France, Middle East Online, 8/20/2009
30
Muslims and Citizens: France‟s headscarf controversy by John R. Bowen http://bostonreview.net/BR29.1/bowen.php