EXPERT
COMMENT
University
Communications
Tel. +61 3 9925 3176
Fax +61 3 9662 2739
MELBOURNE
BRUNSWICK
BUNDOORA
FISHERMAN’S BEND
POINT COOK
HAMILTON
HO CHI MINH CITY
HANOI
–
Expert comment on Muslim women and burqas –
French President Nicholas Sarkozy has declared the Islamic burqa “not welcome”
in France.
In a speech overnight, Mr Sarkozy said the burqa was not a symbol of faith but a
sign of subservience for women.
Why is the issue of Islamic clothing for women so controversial in France?
What are the differences between France and Australia, in the way our societies
and governments have handled the issue?
What are the attitudes of young Australian Muslims to clothing such as the hijab
and the burqa?
RMIT University researcher Chloe Patton has studied the controversial issue of
hijabs in French schools.
Ms Patton’s recently completed doctoral research focused on young Muslims in
Australia and how they framed their identity in relation to Australian
multiculturalism.
A PhD candidate in the School of Global Studies, Social Science and Planning, Ms
Patton is available for interview on the French President’s comments about the
Islamic burqa and the significance of the issue for Australia.
For interviews: RMIT University’s Chloe Patton, (03) 9925 9898 or 0423 720
822.
For general media enquiries: RMIT University Communications, Gosia
Kaszubska, (03) 9925 3176 or 0417 510 735.
23 June, 2009
NEWS 
