Islam and the Veiling of Women (October 26th)

Question 1

QNA Bill 94

Answer 1

“to establish the conditions under which an accommodation may be made”

Question 2

Bill 60

Answer 2

1. Amend the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms
2. Establish a duty of neutrality and reserve for all state personnel
3. Limit the wearing of conspicuous religious symbols
4. Make it mandatory to have one’s face uncovered when providing or receiving a state service
5. Establish an implementation policy for state organizations

Question 3

Four legal requirements to become a Canadian citizen

Answer 3

• Basic knowledge of Canada
• Speak one of the two official languages
• Been resident in Canada for 3/5 years
• Oath of citizenship

Question 4

Why ban the niqab? (10 reasons)

Answer 4

• Symbol of non-integration
• Symbol of women’s oppression
• Affront to secularism
• Tool for intimidation or proselytism
• Impolite
• Limits communication
• Security threat to others / safety concern to self
• Creates challenges for identification
• Intolerant
• Cultural symbol, not a religious requirement

Question 5

Why wear the niqab? (6 reasons)

Answer 5

• Sign of identity
• Overt display of religion devotion and piety (especially the virtue of modesty)
• Contributing factor to a sense of self-worth through cultural membership
• Means of gaining a certain freedom of behavior
• Way to conceal or disguise poverty and overcome shame
• Fashion statement

Question 6

Lila Abu-Lughod’s main arguments

Answer 6

• Muslim women do not need saving from their culture

- Need the world to be a more just place (safety, resources to live decent lives)

Question 7

Key question : How do deal with others?

Answer 7

clarify the political issue
accept the possibility of difference
Vigilance about rhetoric of saving

Question 8

Shachar

Answer 8

“…as identity group members, women should not have to give up their citizenship entitlements to keep their cultures”