Cameroun : manifestation de la Diaspora

that, it is clearly wrong to side with the state on this issue , or to exdlcue candidates who choose to wear the veil, for basic principles of rights to religious expression and the the need to counter state racism (all religions oppress women, why single out Islam). Such a position also misunderstands the complexity of motivations for donning the veil which can go beyond religious observance in the context of anti-Muslim racism. Asserting one’s religious and cultural identity becomes all the more important for many Muslims in the current climate, some women may feel empowered by wearing the veil just as some women may feel empowered by adopting dress codes which emphasise their sexual attractiveness. Just as feminists of latter years may have felt empowered by the boiler suit and the Doc Martens. Why we dress the way we do is complex and the state should butt out.However, we can still discuss and have an opinion on these things. Adopting gender related dress codes for religious reasons is not a good thing, neither is the objectification of women as sexual playthings. What is lacking today is a women’s movement (preferably a working class one) in which women can explore their place in society and provide solidarity to those who are trying to escape the bonds of oppression, both explicit and implicit. Such a movement would have to be open to all women, whatever they choose to wear, whatever the motivation. Liberation is a work in progress.