FRANCE. About 400 Muslims demonstrated in Paris on Sunday October 22 against the restrictions on wearing scarves, or "Chadors", in state school classrooms. Organised by the Islamic Association of France and the Voice of Islam, the non-violent protest resulted from controversy over five girls in Marseille, Avignon and the Paris suburb of Creil who insist on wearing a scarf when men other than members of their families are present and who have been expelled from their schools. The French education system bans displays of religion in its schools while at the same time encouraging integration of foreign children. It now faces mounting pressure from a growing number of ethnic groups who see the decision as an act of discrimination. Muslims praying after the demonstration. 1989.