Well this topic seems to open a pandoras box for a free-thinker.
On one hand, woman or anyone should have a right to adorn themselves however they want --as long as it isn't offensive to others. French parliament terms burqa/niqab as socially unacceptable and a threat to their secularism. We can argue the reasons from dawn till dusk; at the end of the day --it's their law.
Respect it, or leave.
And allow me to be even more frank by posing a question.
Where is it mandated in the religion that woman must cover herself head to toe?
Racism is rampant in many parts of the 'secular' EU countries some of the Muslim diaspora also don't make enough efforts to integrate. Integrate doesnt mean popping bottles of wine and wearing miniskirts; it doesnt mean guys must gel their hair and talk in gay accents; it simply means making the extra effort to reach out to locals and be more open to engaging in people to people contact --instead of staying in their enclaves.
lastly, if a woman GENUINELY wants to wear a niqab (not out of pressure or hidden coercion) then by all means they can do it. I personally think it's totally un-necessary. To me the woman is a sign of beauty --her face, her hair, everything. They are bearers of life. They must show themselves. If they are compelled to keep their ''gaze'' down -- then maybe its guys who should do the same as well, and not be scumbags.
I wonder about how the male gaze determines what is socially acceptable for women. In France now, you can't leave the house if you cover your face, but if you pose in the nude for the world, you might become first lady! I think female exploitation and oppression are two sides of the same coin.
a pandoras box indeed
Well said Abu bhai, I completely agree with you. May Allah bless you brother.
