Women protest as French Cabinet gets veil ban bill
PARIS – On Wednesday, French Justice Minister Michele Alliot-Marie presented a draft law to the Cabinet banning Muslim veils that cover the face, the first formal step in a process to forbid such attire in all public places in France. It calls for euro150 ($185) fines and, in some cases, citizenship classes for women who run afoul of the law.
The measure notably creates a new offense, “inciting to hide the face,” and anyone convicted of forcing a woman to wear such a veil risks a year in prison and a euro15,000 ($18,555) fine, according to a copy of the text.
“Citizenship should be experienced with an uncovered face,” President Nicolas Sarkozy told the Cabinet meeting, in remarks released by his office. “There can be no other solution but a ban in all public places.”
Although the Interior Ministry estimates there are only 1,900 women in France who cover their faces with veils, the planned law would be another defining moment for Islam as the nation tries to bring its Muslim population – at least 5 million, the largest in western Europe – into the mainstream, even by force of law.
The bill is to go before parliament in July, and despite the acrimonious debate that is sure to come, there is little doubt the measure will become law. Sarkozy, who says such veils oppress women, wants a law banning them on the books as soon as possible.
“If the law is voted, I won’t take off my veil. … No one will dictate my way of life but God,” said Najat, a divorcee, who gave her age as “45 plus.” She was one of a half-dozen women who, in a rare move, met with reporters Tuesday to express their worries about changes they say will heavily impact their lives.
Like others, she refused to give her full name. All said they fear for their safety in an increasingly tense climate. Najat was among those who said she has been harassed since debate over the planned law began nearly a year ago.
The measure, which could be amended once it reaches parliament, foresees a six-month delay in its application to explain the law, which means it wouldn’t take effect until early in 2011.
More Stories
USF Sarasota-Manatee regional chancellor to retire by the end of the year
Karen Holbrook, the regional chancellor at the Sarasota-Manatee campus, is set to retire by the end of the year. Holbrook announced her retirement on Thursday at a State of the Campus meeting. In the 17 years she has been at USF, Holbrook was in different leadership positions and was named regional chancellor in 2018. “It […]
USF students debate major policy issues ahead of election
Michael Fusella, president of USF’s College Republicans, said this year’s presidential election is one of the most important in students’ lifetimes and looked forward to hosting a respectful debate at USF. Along with Alexa Matos, president of USF’s College Democrats, Fusella moderated a joint debate Tuesday night to discuss policy issues ahead of the election. […]
USF ‘Tampa Bay Strong’ campaign supports students recovering from storms
In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, USF launched a campaign to raise money for students still recovering from the storm. The “Tampa Bay Strong” initiative was created with Follett Higher Education Group, a company that manages USF’s campus bookstores, to design a unique T-shirt available in stores. The special edition $25 tee is […]
USF SG passes resolution in favor of Amendment 4
The Student Government (SG) Senate unanimously passed a resolution in favor of Amendment 4, a ballot measure that protects abortion rights in Florida. The resolution will be available online in an effort to show the SG Senate supports and encourages students to vote “yes” to Amendment 4, said Alexis Hobbs, SG St. Pete senator and […]
USF, Election Day is coming up. Here’s what you need to know.
USF Professor Daniel Ruth said students should vote, regardless of party, for the candidate they feel represents their best interests. Ruth, an award-winning columnist for the Tampa Bay Times, said he thinks the election will be decided by “very narrow margins.” “Get off your keisters and vote,” Ruth said. “If you don’t vote you can’t […]
USF’s stadium will incorporate sustainability measures, Athletics director says
While USF’s new $340 million stadium has sparked concerns about sustainability, USF Athletics Director Michael Kelly said environmental measures are being incorporated into the facility’s design. “Recycling efforts during all our sports events are really encouraged,” Kelly said. “Waste management will have a major impact on the design and activation of this facility.” Despite […]