Pluriel

University platform for research on Islam

Initiated by
the Federation
of European
Catholic
Universities

Supported by
the International
Federation
of Catholic
Universities

English,

French

2022

Breaking Ramadan in the city centre. The public presentation of a young Muslim association

By Federico Biasca and Guillaume Chatagny

“This article presents, describes, and analyses an event for breaking the fast organized in the public sphere by a local association of young Muslims in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. The authors examine the signs and features by which the association presented itself and the Muslim population. After a description of the square, focusing on its configuration and equipment, the authors note that the forms more closely resemble a folk than a religious event. The authors then analyze the speeches that were held at the opening of the event. They note that the religious features were relatively little mediatized by the Muslim actors. Instead, it is the image of the Muslim as an ordinary citizen that is stressed. In conclusion, the authors propose a reflection on the issues of visibility and recognition related to Muslim communities in the Swiss context.”

Par Federico Biasca et Guillaume Chatagny

“Cet article présente, décrit et analyse une rupture du jeûne organisée dans l’espace public par une association locale de jeunes musulmans en Suisse romande. Les auteurs examinent les signes ou traits par lesquels l’association s’est présentée elle-même et a désigné les musulmans. Après la description de la place où la manifestation s’est tenue en se concentrant sur son aménagement et ses équipements, les auteurs relèvent que les formes de l’événement se rapprochent davantage d’une fête populaire que religieuse. Ensuite, les auteurs analysent des discours prononcés en ouverture de l’événement. Ils remarquent que les traits religieux y sont relativement peu médiatisés par les acteurs musulmans et ce, pour mettre en avant l’image du musulman comme citoyen ordinaire. En conclusion, les auteurs proposent une réflexion sur les enjeux de visibilité et de reconnaissance relatifs aux communautés musulmanes dans le contexte suisse.”

Article en accès libre

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