Standing up for her beliefs
As she entered a meeting with the Grand Mufti of Lebanon, Marine Le Pen – Leader of France’s National Front Party – was told she had to wear a headscarf to enter the meeting.
Le Pen says she had told the Mufti’s office ahead of time that she would not wear a headscarf, and they had made no objection. However, it seems they tried to impose it on Le Pen when she arrived.
Said Le Pen, “They didn’t cancel the meeting so I thought they would accept the fact that I wouldn’t wear one. They tried to impose it upon me, make it a matter of fact. You can’t put me before a matter of fact.”
While the Mufti’s office called Le Pen’s behaivour “inappropriate,” many are heartened by Le Pen’s willingness to assert western principles of freedom and the equality of men and women.
Le Pen’s actions are garnering extensive praise on social media. Here’s a sampling of the response:
https://twitter.com/hrtablaze/status/834073788308344833
Marine Le Pen refused to wear a headscarf in Lebanon today. What a difference with the 'feminists of Europe'. pic.twitter.com/C06s3TsC1X
— Voice of Europe (@V_of_Europe) February 21, 2017
This is real feminism. French Presidential candidate Marine Le Pen refused put a head scarf on. She said no and walked out. #ImWithHer pic.twitter.com/Lc9azsCu40
— Truth Bombers (@Truth_Bombers) February 21, 2017
Well done Marine Le Pen an example to all the West https://t.co/o0Hpkl20Zg
— David Jones (@DavidJo52951945) February 21, 2017
WATCH: Marine Le Pen refuses to wear headscarf
Whether you agree with Le Pen’s politics or not, she is showing courage and a willingness to stand up for what she believes in – not just when it’s safe and easy, but when it’s tough and controversial as well.
It’s essential for the western world to stay true to our principles of freedom and equality and personal choice. More of our politicians could stand to show the toughness and strength Le Pen exhibited today.
Spencer Fernando
Photo – Twitter
