As the evening began to wind down on Leidsplein center, the performers on the square started to pack up their equipment and terraces to empty. In a few hours Leidsplein would transform itself; with a selection of clubs restaurants and bars it understandable why it has a strong reputation for having a vibrant nightlife.
And here is where the story begins, i see two young Muslim girs of probable North African decent (Moroccan i think) wearing headscarf's and dressed quite fashionably, with dark jeans and soft coloured blazers.
She flags me down and commences talking in Dutch while handing me a flyer i pretend to understand and continue to walk before my Husband informs them i do not speak Dutch. With a little laugh she converts to English and tells me that there is a party on Leidsplein, girsl only and to bring my friends.
Naturally by wearing a headscarf its not often i get invited to clubs by street reps but this party had a twist. There would not only be a ban on men entering the venue, but all the waitresses and indoor security would be girls so i guess Muslim girls can whip off their headscarf and dress more loosely but there would be no alcohol served,. beginning a 9pm and ending 3am with Music on the menu including but not limited to "reggae, dance, r&b e.t.c" and played by DJ Hibba
Ok, so Muslim girls wanna have fun then. But i can hardly imagine a group of young Muslim girls, and note i am speaking with regards to the more visible practicing ones with headscarf's waltzing out of the party at 3am amoung the drunken revellers Leidsplein attracts. It defies the whole principle of the hijab which isnt just a look but a lifestyle.
No alcohol, No men but is this a dillusion of Islamic principles and cultural etiquette or is this a natural progression and fusion of a western lifestyle while observing Islamic constraints. For me its the former.
The 21st Islamic paradox continues.
No alcohol, no men... But unlimited music. Personally, I don't see the point to conform to western ideals and brand it 'Halal parties'.
ReplyDeleteIt might be an attempt to try lessen the isolation muslim girls go through living in the western world. But some parts of it does defy islamic teachings on modesty etc. Rolling out of buildings at 3am is just.....
I say, if you want fun... Have a tea party. Lol but this is coming from the unsociable grumpy me.
Tea pary! why stop there go really wild and have a high tea...earl grey anyone?
ReplyDeleteWell, now we know what to expect from you when we come for tea. I want crumpets and scones too.
ReplyDeleteI don't know though, wholesome fun can be attainable if done the right way. They don't need to go to such lengths.
Actually, can I swap my tea for a chocolate bar?
Agreed, Agreed & Further Agreed anon- although chocolate at tea is a cop-out... im such a good hostess that i accept anyway.
ReplyDeleteLol thats a date then!
ReplyDelete