5 min read•january 12, 2023
Margaret Schmidt
Margaret Schmidt
How does one’s identity evolve over time? En quoi l’identité évolue-t-elle au fil du temps?
Gender and Sexuality, Language, and Patriotism
France has a long history of debate and progress regarding gender and sexuality (le genre et la sexualité). French law has recognized civil unions for gay couples since last century and marriage equality was legalized in 2013. The transgender community is also protected by anti-discrimination laws. However, France's LGBTQIA+ community still faces discrimination and marginalization in various aspects of life, from social and familial rejection to harassment and violence. | In the United States, the rights and acceptance of individuals who identify as LGBTQ have been the subject of ongoing political and cultural debate. The Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in 2015, and anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ individuals from discrimination in the workplace, housing, and public accommodations have been passed in many states and municipalities. The rate of hate crimes against people who identify as LGBTQIA+ is significantly higher than against other groups in the US. |
French is the official language of France, and is spoken by the majority of the population. However, France is a multilingual country, and there are many regional languages and dialects spoken throughout the country. France also has a large immigrant population, and many languages from around the world can be heard in French cities. Overall, linguistic identity in France is shaped by the country's history, culture, and diversity. There is also a rich tapestry of regional languages and dialects, as well as languages spoken by immigrants, that are all a part of the linguistic landscape of France. | In the United States, linguistic identity is shaped by the country's history of immigration and linguistic diversity. According to the census, around 21% of the US population speaks a language other than English at home. Spanish is the most common language spoken alongside English. The country's linguistic diversity is considered a strength and a representation of its multicultural heritage. Despite this, there have been periods in the history of the US where people who spoke other languages were discriminated against, |
The idea of "liberté, égalité, fraternité" (liberty, equality, fraternity) is often seen as central to French patriotism. The French national anthem, "La Marseillaise," was written during the revolution and became a symbol of French unity and nationalism sentiment. France also has a strong tradition of national military service, which has been mandatory for many years. | The United States was founded on the principles of freedom and democracy, as outlined in documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The flag of the United States, commonly known as the "Stars and Stripes," is a powerful symbol of American patriotism. Military service is also considered an honorable and patriotic act in the US. Democracy and freedom, as well as its role as a superpower and leader in the world, can typically define American patriotism. |
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