America didn't show up at the march with any high profile leaders. Americans are now shocked at the glaring absence.

Personally, I found it rather refreshing. For once, it was about the rest of the world. America seems to crowd the limelight when they appear.

America: this is not about you, it's about us. I'm not sure if Americans understand that concept yet.

I may finally be beginning to respect this magazine a bit.

I'm curious, though, what it will do in the future...

A few people have commented on their courage (to have published such provocative cartoons, etc. in the past), but I think what would be most courageous -- and perhaps most unexpected -- of this magazine is to now try to mend the misunderstandings and animosity (on all sides) between the West and the Muslim world.

Have you read the white text on red background under the title?

They need to continue using their platform of satire to point out inconvenient truths people willingly ignore in submission to sacred cows. I'm glad they defiantly used Mohammed on the cover, and the messaging is beautiful.

Except that it's very ironic.

Of course it is ironic. It's satire. But how is this especially ironic? It instantly states that the terrorists do not own Mohammed, and Mohammed would be ashamed of their actions. It is very touching at the same time.

The caricature has multiple interpretations.

It could be what you say.

It could also be saying that French Mulsims are throwing their weight behind "je suis Charlie" to appear as French and Republican as possible for fear of reprisals or fuelling the far right. The "tout est pardonné" would reinforce this, as in, let this be over and forgotten as soon as possible.

It could also be saying that the right wing sees the Muslims in this way.

If they'll start mending "the misunderstandings and animosity" they'll cease to be a satire magazine.
Frankly, I'm beginning to believe that no such magazines exist in the States, Pancakes.

I'm sure you would find it more "courageous" if it fit your agenda. But whatever. Your agenda is not the point.


Of course there are. Larry Flynt started to use his magazine in this way, but along with very raunchy pornography. Countless other magazines have opened and closed. Other genres followed; comedians, cartoons, and all outdone by the Internet.


I have question for Muslims on the image and likeness of Mohammed. If Mohammed is God's gift to humanity, why can't the rest of Humanity use his image and likeness? Is the submission of Islam a submission to God, or to Muslims? And who is to say who is a Muslim and who is not?

The Submission of Islam is to God.

I agree that no such magazines (appear to) exist in the States. Did I suggest that there are?

And in response to Olygirl's comment...

How exactly is it that Americans have shown that they think this is only about Americans? I ask this with an open mind. Because I of course can only speak for myself, but I in no way see this tragedy as being relevant to Americans, in particular. I think it is relevant to the entire world.

Also, as for Americans stealing the limelight... I'm curious how that is done. (I'm not saying it isn't, I'm just curious what you mean exactly). Because when it comes to international leaders, etc. showing up at events like this, I think it is up to each individual country's journalists to decide whom they do and do not give coverage... no? I mean, it isn't like the leaders are filming themselves or demanding the right to speak without being asked.

I thought Fox news in the U.S. was satire?

Well, you seem to be doing a good job of making it all about you.

I wish it was. But in their case, I think it's just plain ignorance and stupidity.

Now admit it: you've stolen this line from adrianlondon didn't you?

The test for good satire is that it gets mistaken for the real thing.

However, in the case of Fox, I think not.

Satire is supposed to be 'funny' - Fox News is defo not.

And the tragic part is that I know many Americans, some relatives of mine- who truly and actually BELIEVE that Fox 'News' is the only source of truth. And that is seriously worrying. The piece yesterday about Birmingham was a good indication of where their truth lies (ooops !) - in the case of Brum though, it was hilarious.

However, did you see Judge Janine solution to 'Islamisation'?!?
Such a lovely woman.

I agree; it's frightening how many Americans do follow Fox News. It's like a brainwashing drug for the small-minded. It's basically become a voice for conservative, far-right Christians. But there are also many in the US (the liberals) who absolutely hate it with a passion.

In relation to this thread... I don't know much about French politics, but is there also quite a bit of "conflict" between the far left and the far right there as well? From what I've been reading in the news lately, there seems to be.

Yeah, I see you have as much trouble with diversity and free speech.

Unlike humorist satire, FoxNews is more like action-adventure satire in the tone of Jack Bauer 24. I wouldn't call it news. It is editorial and infotainment. But as such, it does bring up valid points and questions that are not addressed by the Government's talking point. It is just as essential we also have these in a democracy. Would you like gunmen to attack there too?

I guess you couldn't find sources to back your claim about Lieberman.

Any other pearls of wisdom you would like to share ?