Quote Originally Posted by Louis VI the Fat
My impression is that Europe is struggling more than America with immigration issues. The social and economic postion of immigrants is worse, and the indigenous populations are more racist than Americans. For one thing, etnicity, language and nationality are often inextricably linked within European states, unlike, largely, the US.
the nationalism argument makes sense with regard to European reaction to immigration. In the states the news i see in regards to european immigration issues is contingent on the the prior holdings of the countries. I dontk know if i am articulating this well so I will make a better attempt.

Due to the vast territories that a lot of European nations had isnt it true that alot of non continental subjects are alowed citizenship? France in particular, arent a lot of the immigrants really french subjects (or decendents of) who happen to be born in another country?

thats pretty much how it is presented here, and i guess we dont have a full grasp on the lack of intergration of past colonial policies to modern economic circumstances (americans dont). Am I understanding your point or am I expanding to far?


I'm never out to 'correct' anyone, but I'll gladly inform people when asked. There is a French law against conspicuous religious symbols in schools. Not a burka or headscarf ban, although the law is often called a 'headscarf ban' abroad. While incorrect, it would be hypocritical to deny that headscarfs were ultimately the reason behind this law indeed. However, if you show up with a large cross around your neck at my university I will personally rip it off.
(Unless you're like 6'4 and full of muscles or anything. In that case, anything goes. )
If i am wrong i dont mind being corrected, to me its all in how its done, one can do it pleasantly or one can be a jerk about it, thank you for being pleasant.

You are correct, in the U.S. we have heard about the "head scarf" ban in france and it seems to always be discussed in conjunction with the unrest last year. (I understand the two arent necessarily linked). Your link was informative but it seems to be a quandry to ask that those born in other countries adhere to the french glue.