As the French parliament prepares to discuss the politically charged issue of mandatory school uniforms, Brigitte Macron, the wife of the president of France, has weighed into the political debate as the far-right has been pushing for the introduction of mandatory school uniforms in France.
Since 1968, uniforms have not been required in French schools, but the issue has frequently come up in political discussions.
“It erases differences, we save time – it’s time-consuming to choose how to dress in the morning – and money, compared to brands,” the French first lady told reporters in an interview.
Brigitte Macron, a former Latin and literature teacher of 20 years who met her future husband, Emmanuel Macron, in one of her after-school drama classes, recalled having to wear a uniform for 15 years as a student, consisting of a navy blue skirt and sweater, and claimed she handled it well.
“So I am in favour of wearing a school uniform but with a simple and not dull outfit,” she said.
The national assembly of France is scheduled to debate whether or not school uniforms should once again be required after a motion was filed by Marine Le Pen’s far- right Rassemblement National.
Pap Ndiaye, France’s minister of education, has already stated that he is opposed to requiring uniforms for all students.
Some people believe that wearing a uniform promotes equality and eliminates financial and social status disparities. Others feel that it is a pointless argument that detracts from more important matters like punishment and harassment.
Author-Roberta Appiah
