"Dianavan, you need to address the facts on religious and cultural clams for "special consideration". The "claims for special consideration" that you have posted should be considered and rejected as illegal, for the most part. Eventually, it will be clear that most laws are there for a good reason (health, safety, etc.) Those from other cultures will realize that they can retain most of their cultural values but not all of them. They must also integrate into the norms and ideals of the existing society. It can be done. Multiculturalism does not mean that you can keep all of your previous cultural norms. All people must abide by the laws of the country in which they reside. If they don't think the laws are fair, they can attempt to change them through legislation or the charter of rights and freedom or any other mechanism. By highlighting the plight of individuals, the media does nothing to promote harmony between people. Most of these claims for special consideration have to do with individuals, not entire cultures. Most people from other cultures understand this. If not, immigration officials should make it very clear that they are expected to abide by the laws of their new country. Believe me, there are plenty of men out there who have discovered that in North America you are not allowed to batter women and children. But, of course, North American men need to learn this as well. btw - It isn't only immigrants who want their religious customs to be honoured. Religious zealots are making unreasonable demands all the time. Aren't there special divorce courts for Jews? Aren't there polygamous sects and child brides in N.A.? Catholics are constantly trying to impose their right to life ideology. This is not strictly an immigrant issue or a cultural issue. Its really a religious issue. Religious rights end where the law begins.
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