French Law On Secularity and Conspicuous Religious Symbols in Schools - Interpretation

Interpretation

There have been a number of cases where school or public authorities have attempted to apply the law to accompanying adults. Whilst this is allowed within the definition of the law, it may be perceived as being against the spirit, particularly within the Islamic community. Many Muslims believe the law to be unenforceable, as it is - by definition - against sharia principles. To allow disobedience on this basis, however, would mean legitimizing many Muslims' belief that the laws of France do not apply to them. In Seine Saint Denis, for example, mothers of children in primary schools have often not been allowed to accompany school visits (to the gym or the museum) if the mothers wear a headscarf. In Montreuil a mobilisation of parents compelled a headmistress to accept the participation of a mother wearing a headscarf at the school fête.

Occasionally, mayors have refused to allow women wearing headscarves to act as witnesses at weddings, or to receive their naturalization papers.

One or two universities have attempted to ban students who wear headscarves, but most have not.

In 2007 a petition was launched to ban headscarves in universities; it obtained considerable support but not enough for it to enter public debate on a large scale.