French Channel CNews Criticized for Islamophobic Remarks Against Nuhaila Benzina’s Hijab at the 2023 Women’s World Cup

Introduction

French channel CNews has faced heavy criticism for making Islamophobic remarks against Moroccan soccer player Nuhaila Benzina. Benzina made the innovative decision to wear a hijab during the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

Philippe Guibert’s Offensive Commentary

Columnist Philippe Guibert’s comments on the HDPros show not only criticized Benzina’s choice, but also launched a scathing attack, calling the hijab an “incredible regression.”

Narrow Definition of Modesty

Guibert’s offensive remarks suggested that Benzina’s hijab sent a message of indiscretion to her teammates, implying that it meant a woman’s duty to cover her hair, shoulders, and overall figure in order to be considered modest.

Controversy and Outrage

This attempt to impose a narrow definition of modesty across cultures and religious practices has sparked controversy, leaving fans and viewers dismayed.

Impact on Diversity and Inclusion

Benzina’s historic moment as the first player to wear a hijab in a prestigious tournament was meant to celebrate diversity and inclusion. However, CNews’ comments overshadowed this significant event and cast a shadow on the spirit of global unity that the World Cup represents.

Outrage on Social Media

As news of Guibert’s announcement spread, outrage swept through social media, with many denouncing CNews’ attempt to project France’s controversial ban on religious symbols onto an athlete from another country and a tournament hosted outside of France.

Perpetuating Harmful Stereotypes

Many argue that such remarks perpetuate harmful stereotypes and Islamophobic attitudes towards women who choose to wear the hijab. They stress the need to respect different cultures and religious practices without imposing one’s own beliefs.

Men Dictating Women’s Clothing Choices

Some social media users highlight the absurdity of men taking it upon themselves to dictate women’s clothing choices. They express support for Benzina and her playmates who do not see her hijab in the same negative light.

French Media’s Regressive Approach

This incident exposes a discrepancy between the French media and other Western media. While international platforms have celebrated Benzina’s historic moment as a positive step towards inclusiveness and diversity in women’s football, the French media, including CNews, have taken a regressive approach.

Projection of National Agenda

CNews is not the only media outlet projecting France’s national agenda and internal debate about religious symbols onto international athletes from different cultures. L’Equipe, the famous French sports newspaper, has also added fuel to the fire by calling Benzina’s hijab “highly controversial.”

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Eddie Hudson is an Entertainment News Reporter and Fashion Stylist. Graduated with a degree in Television Production from Howard University. He is an award-winning entertainment news reporter at 24PalNews and credits his upbringing and passion for helping others as the foundation for his success.

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