While I love me some France, it's far from paradise in many respects. One thing it's definitely not is colorblind. Despite the number of interracial couples and diversity of people one may encounter on a trip to France.
Take Sarkozy's current crackdown on the Roma, or gypsies - repatriating those who cannot prove they can support themselves to Bucharest, Romania. And though they may be sent "back" to Romania, the Romani people hail from much further afield, originally - from the northern region of the Indian subcontinent.
I'm inclined to agree with those who see this latest French policy, among others (e.g., banning the veil for Muslim women), as a move toward official racism. Very disconcerting developments, at best. And though France may send its gypsies away, they will, no doubt, soon be back. As, apparently, no EU nation wants to give them the assistance they so obviously and desperately need. Least of all Romania. And so, what then?
Your comments on this image are welcome, and encouraged! And a question for the photographer - narceau.zemm - if s/he is so inclined: Is there anything special about this moment, day, trip, or place beyond what you've shared on Flickr that you'd like to add or comment on here? Along with other vivaca visitors, I would love to know more!
Location: Paris, France ★
Photo courtesy of narceau.zemm
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