The French Council of the Islamic Faith (CFCM) based in Paris released a statement, on Sunday addressing the controversy surrounding attacks on secularism within the educational environment. The council revealed that the attacks intensified the debate, particularly focusing on the issue of wearing the “abaya,” which has been mistakenly portrayed by some as an Islamic religious symbol.
The council clarified that the term “Abaya” is a term from the Arabic language, of which the equivalent in English literally translates to “dress” or “coat.”
They emphasized that in Islam, no article of clothing carries an inherent religious significance. The note further stressed that French Muslims have consistently emphasized that schools should be places of knowledge and awareness, not platforms of proselytizing.
The council stressed that Muslim children comply with the March 2004 law regulating the wearing of attire containing religious symbols, with very rare exceptions.
In their statement, concerns were expressed about the biased media coverage–essentially fearmongering over alleged attacks on secularism–and called for a more balanced approach.
In condemning such attacks, the council urged the importance of addressing more critical issues such as school bullying, which continues to negatively impact students, leading them to emotional trauma and even suicide.
The CFCM emphasized that religiosity is not a product of show or propaganda but rather a state of mind leading to serenity and inner peace. It urges Muslims not to stigmatize Islam and their fellow brothers and sisters, and reaffirms the Holy Quran’s call for modesty and to eschew vanity, regardless of what people choose to wear.