"Since we represent temptation, we're being asked to hide,”

mrwalkerb

jeffbr wrote:

You don't have to. But the fact remains it is a dagger/knife/weapon for every other person. Are you suggesting we discriminate based on religion? Xenophobe my ass. How about realist?

there is a huge difference between a symbolic dagger which is contained in a sheath, and a fully automatic weapon or some guy randomly walking around with c-4.

jeffbr

mrwalkerb wrote:

there is a huge difference between a symbolic dagger which is contained in a sheath, and a fully automatic weapon or some guy randomly walking around with c-4.

But much less difference between a symbolic dagger in a sheath and a hunting knife in a sheath. I'd prefer neither around my kids at school, thanks.

redrock

thankyougrandma wrote:

Well, those who made the petitions are the members of the YMCA, they don't like the decision that was made without consulting them (or anyone), and they let it know, what's wrong about it? It might even work, the Y is considering putting back the old windows, and the Hasidic center will have to cover their own window, which is what should have been done in the first place. Really it's not that big of a deal, but it still a funny story to follow, it brings up a lot of emotional debate around here... hehe poor hassidic kids, they won't be able to see spandex woman doing pilate anymore... haha.

From your first post, it would seem that due consultation, with appropriate people, took place. I don't see why members should have a say in how the gym is managed... a fee doesn't give you access to the board! They can protest if they wish but they have no reason to expect involvement in such decisions. After all, the windows are frosted, not tinted. Plenty of light coming in. And it's only a few of the windows.. not all. If they're not happy with management decisions, they can find another gym!

Also in your first post, you mention that the Hasidic Centre DID take steps to sort the 'problem' out themselves by installing tinted windows a their centre.

I think both parties here acted very reasonably and with community spirit. A bit of cooperation instead of hate and confrontation is always welcome!

I tell these ladies in spandex... go find another gym if you are angered that hot blooded young men can't see you showing off in your spandex anymore!

Sonja_S

thankyougrandma wrote:

Last spring, a local YMCA in Montreal installed four frosted windows in one of its exercise rooms to accommodate a neighbouring Hasidic synagogue and religious school. Its devout members complained that their teenaged boys were being distracted by the exposed flesh of women doing their Pilates, aerobics and other activities.

“It's like getting us to wear a veil. Since we represent temptation, we're being asked to hide,” Renée Lavaillante, who started the petition, said yesterday. “We shouldn't have to hide in order to exercise in Quebec. We're a secular state, and shouldn't hide ourselves for religious reasons.”

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20061108.wgym08/BNStory/National/home

Exhibitionistic tendencies anyone? I'm sorry, but I wouldn't want an audience for my Pilates class. Especially not one consisting of hormonally unstable teenage boys The comparison with wearing a veil is also way over the top. I still dream of the day where people just 'live and let live', but I doubt I'll be around that long...