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Multiculturalism In France they have just enacted a law banning the wearing of what they call ‘obvious religious symbols’ in state schools. These include Islamic headscarves and Jewish skullcaps. The attitude in France is that there is a separation of church and state and such displays of religion are not appropriate in a school setting. This stance is largely supported by the populous who have the attitude that immigrants (not that Muslims or Jews are necessarily immigrants) should be French, and all that that implies. In Australia there is a different attitude to immigrants and multiculturalism is the order of the day. Multiculturalism is the policy that minority groups are allowed, or even encouraged, to follow their own culture. The official attitude is that this enhances Australian society. There is a lot to be said for this. A friend of mine in Melbourne who works with Muslims and Jews says the groups work very well together. Even the Greeks and Turks live and work well together. Many years ago Australia was a cultural wasteland and as far as food was concerned, even cut white bread was considered exotic. Undoubtedly immigrants have added to Australian society. The problem arises when rather than viewing Australia as a predominantly Christian society that is tolerant of other cultures, the view is adopted that all cultures are of equal weight and mustn't be offended. That is, we mustn't celebrate Christmas as this, it is felt, will offend Muslims. Some time ago there was some discussion regarding the status of Muslims in Australia particularly regarding their view of polygamy. In Muslim tradition, men are able to marry up four wives, although there are strict conditions. This rule was enacted at a time when it was difficult for women to be self sufficient, and primarily as a way of enabling widows to be supported by a husband. The contention was whether Muslims would follow Australian law of monogamy or Muslim law. In an interview with a Muslim spiritual leader he stated categorically that Muslims are obligated to follow the law of the land. “However”, he added, “In Australia it’s considered okay for a man to divorce his wife for a mistress but it’s not okay to marry the mistress and support both of them”. Maybe, in line with multiculturalism, we aught to allow polygamy.