2023-11-14 15:37:00
Questioned by the DH about the Saint-Nicolas celebration and its inclusive nature, the mayor of Saint-Gilles, Jean Spinette (PS) mentioned the municipality’s partnership “with the Moroccan town of Berkane, known for its clementines. It’s a way to find a connection with the Muslim community in the town. You should know that many people residing in Saint-Gilles come from this region of Morocco. And I would find it comical to have a Sidi Nicolas who provides clementines to children”
Comments which did not escape the section of the MR Saint-Gilles: “To tell the truth, it seemed to me to be a joke at first, recognizes Yannis Bakhouche, head of the MR Saint-Gilles list. It seems that the mayor is trying to divert attention from much more serious problems by launching this idea of changing the name of Saint-Nicolas to Sidi Nicolas. Saint Nicholas is a Catholic tradition that enchants all children, regardless of their origin or religion. It’s a time when we come together, share sweets, chocolates and create memories together. Why want to change something that brings everyone together over trifles? This has never been a demand from the Muslim community, it’s really astonishing.”
A more inclusive Saint Nicholas in our schools: “Why not a Sidi Nicolas?”
”In a tone of humor, I mentioned this mixture of traditions and origins which is characteristic of Saint-Gilles and evoking that in the end Saint-Nicolas was more inclusive than we thought since he offered has always been a well-known seasonal fruit. And that, therefore, we could have said Sidi, reframe the mayor. An article title was taken from it which makes us believe that we would like to change the name of Saint-Nicolas or this beautiful tradition appreciated by all children in Saint-Gilles. This is obviously not the case and the Saint-Nicolas event is particularly appreciated in all the schools in our town. He will be celebrated this year as always and I deplore this unnecessary controversy.”
Simply reading the article made it clear that it was indeed a joke and not an official proposal from the Saint-Gilloise majority.
Never mind the MR who rushes into the story and tackles the socialist in the process: “Look around you, security problems have been on the rise for months and mobility is becoming a real headache with citizen questions at each municipal council. The current majority does not seem to respond to these challenges effectively. Rather than trying to please with divisive ideas, we should work together to solve these real-world problems that affect each of us every day.”
In short, at a time when Saint-Nicolas is preparing to go on tour in schools, in Saint-Gilles, the 2024 campaign is launching…
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