Im a pacifist and I abhor all acts of violence. I also believe that ideological extremism is the most destructive force on Earth - be it Capitalist, Christian, Communist or Muslim. Having said that - Im disappointed to see the Charlie Hebdo massacre analyzed outside of any historical perspective. And Im disappointed to see the creators of bigoted propaganda mindlessly eulogized as heroes. While I mourn the senseless loss of life carried out by deranged zealots, I think its dangerous to ignore the historical abuse of French colonialism in Africa, and Frances current repressive treatment of its own Muslim and immigrant population. These satirical cartoons were created in a France that has taken the extremist position of outlawing traditional Muslim face-covering headgear. These satirical cartoons were created in a France that has seen major protests over the repressive treatment of its own immigrant population - which has drawn public criticism from the European Commission. And I cant say that I was at all surprised to learn that one of the murdered cartoonists had fought against Algeria in its war for independence from French colonial rule. Creating cartoons that taunt, mock, and provoke marginalized ethnic/religious minorities doesnt seem very heroic to me. I mourn the tragic loss of these individuals lives; but I also mourn the suffering of the victims of French imperialism throughout history and to the present. The destructive legacy of French colonialism continues to reap devastation across the globe.
Posted on: Fri, 09 Jan 2015 00:19:56 +0000
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