Banning the Burkini: Thoughts

France has recently banned he burkini, which is the Islamic full-body swimsuit. This item of clothing is not intended to be a hostile threat, rather it allows females who chose to wear the hijab to also enjoy the leisure activity of swimming. Muslim women wear it is to maintain modesty, but some non-Muslims wear it to protect themselves from the sun. This new legislation has sparked a controversial debate among people. This law was first passed in Cannes, as it has been said to be a health hazard and does not follow French values. Anyone who wishes to disregard this law will be fined, asked to change or leave the beach. However, the debate is whether this ban is secularism or security.

Many French people suggest that this ban is regressive, as it does not promote equality between men and women. However, Muslims claim otherwise. Muslim women willingly wear this hijab as a symbol of modesty that opposes ostentation, and in Islam males are also required to cover themselves. The burkini is intended to allow these women to enjoy themselves and is not intended to be a symbol of radical Islamism and terrorism. This decree, rather than promoting freedom and equality, has now restricted Muslim women from swimming.

However, I understand the tensions are high in France after 85 civilians were killed in Nice on Bastille Day. But, it is imperative to recognize the motives behind the burkini, and recognize that there is a large population of French Muslims that do not impose harm to the community.