Veils and Other Religious Symbols

[Tsar Phalanxia]

In Western Europe there has been much controversy over whether the Hijab/Burqa should be allowed, especially in schools. The most commoen arguments are "You don't know what they're thinking" and "They might have a bomb" which is clearly ridiculous, and driven mainly be fear and racism. Persoannly, I believe thaty in public, you should wear what you like, but in public institutions, e.g. schools, hospitals, all religious symbols should be banned.

[Perna de Pau]

Originally Said by Tsar Phalanxia

The most commoen arguments are "You don't know what they're thinking" and "They might have a bomb"

I live in Western Europe and never heard such arguments.

Among those which I heard the most:

- it is a symbol of women's submission to men and therefore incompatible with non-discrimination;

- religion should stay in the private sphere;

[Tsar Phalanxia]

We had a debate about it in General mStudies yesterday and about 3/4 s of people said that.
There's a difference in the argument between should it be worn in schools/hospitals and whether it should be worn at all. Which one are you arguing?

[Perna de Pau]

Originally Said by Tsar Phalanxia

There's a difference in the argument between should it be worn in schools/hospitals and whether it should be worn at all. Which one are you arguing?

The first argument applies to wearing it at all, the second only to wearing it in public places

[Tsar Phalanxia]

Well what about Crosses on necklaces, or Kippahs, should they be treated the same as Hijabs?

[bouchie]

Originally Said by Tsar Phalanxia

Well what about Crosses on necklaces, or Kippahs, should they be treated the same as Hijabs?

That's actually a tough question, because some people wear crosses and kippahs out of tradition. Yes, it's a symbol of religion, but even if you don't practice the religion, if that's what you grew up with, you may end up wearing it. I've worn crosses every once in a while, because, hey, they actually look nice and it's a great accessory. But I don't pray (anymore) and I don't look to Jesus for answers.

For some reason, the best way I can express my view on this is to look to black rappers. They wear 'chains' and call each the n word. That's all a symbol of their unfortunate past. And yet they wear their chains and yell out the n word whenever they can. And we (for the most part) accept it, despite the symbolism.

Does that make sense?

Basically, let them wear the hijabs - it's traditional, but doesn't have to be religious.

Unless you're taking a photo id - then lose it.