[Marxism] Debate over the Muslim hijab

[Brian Shannon <Brian_Shannon@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

She is one of millions of Muslim women who each day take a very visible 
side on the emotional, complicated question of the head scarf. Also 
known as hijab, a generic term for modest Muslim dress, the scarves 
look like simple runs of fabric but come layered with meaning.

The hijab is an expression of personal devotion to Islam, but critics 
decry it as an emblem of patriarchal repression. Covered heads can be 
powerful political statements or simply a fashion trend among teens.

Debate simmers in Islamic communities about whether the hijab is 
required for women, but the scarves appear increasingly at the crux of 
cultural clashes — particularly since Sept. 11, 2001.

Amid anger over the U.S.-led invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq and 
ongoing bloodshed in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the hijab has 
emerged in the Middle East with deep political significance. For some, 
the scarves express defiance of American aggression, silent protests 
against Arab governments that cooperate with Washington or a retort to 
Westerners' phobia of Muslims.

To many a wary eye, the hijab symbolizes the systematic degradation of 
women and provokes fear that Islamic fundamentalism will seep into 
Western societies. In France, which has struggled to assimilate its 
Muslim communities, the head coverings and other religious garb were 
banned from public schools last year. Officials cited a desire to 
defend the country's secular tradition.

Muslims around the world — even those who shun the hijab — poured into 
the streets in protest. Militants in Iraq threatened to behead their 
French hostages unless Paris reconsidered. But in Egypt, the nation's 
most powerful cleric scandalized his followers by preaching in favor of 
France's banning of the veil.

FULL AT
http://makeashorterlink.com/?M3612183A


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