Letter from France.WE WERE ALL shaken by the riots that took place in France last autumn. We were aware of the frustrations and hatred in the hearts of many young people who feel rejected by French society. But we never imagined that this could result in such violence. Among the bi-products of this marginalisation Noun 1. marginalisation - the social process of becoming or being made marginal (especially as a group within the larger society); "the marginalization of the underclass"; "the marginalization of literature" marginalization are criminality, racketeering Traditionally, obtaining or extorting money illegally or carrying on illegal business activities, usually by Organized Crime . A pattern of illegal activity carried out as part of an enterprise that is owned or controlled by those who are engaged in the illegal activity. , and no-go areas no-go area Noun a district that is barricaded off so that the police or army can enter only by force Noun 1. no-go area - an area that is dangerous or impossible to enter or to which entry is forbidden . Our country, so proud of its system of social integration with its aim of bringing the communities together, has to admit it has failed. The generation born out of immigration immigration, entrance of a person (an alien) into a new country for the purpose of establishing permanent residence. Motives for immigration, like those for migration generally, are often economic, although religious or political factors may be very important. is less well integrated than the previous one. The sectors targeted show the rioters' feelings towards schools where they didn't fit in and businesses where they didn't find work. The government was right to react firmly, and is now working out ways of giving young people hope that they can find training and work. Some authorities could have expressed greater understanding of the conditions in the banlieues (suburbs) and greater recognition of the reality of discrimination. It is denial of dignity which provokes the desire to smash everything. Over the last five years Initiatives of Change in France has been working through a series of dialogues to understand the alchemy alchemy (ăl`kəmē), ancient art of obscure origin that sought to transform base metals (e.g., lead) into silver and gold; forerunner of the science of chemistry. which controls relations between our communities. What we have learnt through honest conversation, trust and friendship, has transformed how we see one another. The challenge for the future is to find ways of spreading this approach across the country so that we can resolve fears, end job discrimination, improve relations with the police, reduce criminality, rebuild peaceful relations and enable every person to feel they matter. It's up to each of us to sow new attitudes--by going towards the other who is different and multiplying mul·ti·ply 1 v. mul·ti·plied, mul·ti·ply·ing, mul·ti·plies v.tr. 1. To increase the amount, number, or degree of. 2. Mathematics To perform multiplication on. the opportunities to meet. |
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