ENGL 344- Blog #1

Banning a Muslim from wearing a hijab is the same thing to me as banning a Muslim from being Muslim. France is basically taking away their religion but not openly saying it. When we were talking about this in class, I was thinking about how sad it is that we can't be ourselves because a higher power believes differently- that we can be told one thing but have laws suggest something else. A Muslim can be a Muslim but just can't show off her beliefs through a hijab. However, a catholic can be a catholic AND a nun can wear a habit, which is very similar to a hijab. Why and how is this fair? It's not. One religion can get away with believing what they want to and another is forced to partially conform to society or leave their homes. Sometimes I think I am privileged being that I have never had to deal with these problems and other times I believe I might not be as privileged as I think. People who's beliefs are challenged in such a way get to challenge their own morals and values. I have never been challenged like this. How do I know my beliefs are strong when I have never had the opportunity to stick up for what I believe in to a higher power? Truth is, I don't. Getting into debates is really important because it lets one see another perspective and to work through one's own thoughts. The person has to defend themselves, thus creating more of a dedication towards a religion/belief system. The person will become more open minded through this discussion having heard someone else's thoughts. I wish I knew more of what other people thought or maybe even why people disagree with how I feel. I might be more committed to my values.