This article examines Somali refugee womens participation in the French public sphere. Drawing on interviews, focus groups and participant observation with Somali refugee women and local actors, the article argues that representations of Muslim womens needs in French debates over the headscarf do not correspond to Somali womens definitions of their needs and priorities. A logic of separation is at work through which a hierarchy of needs is imposed with Islam as the focal point. Claims based on interconnected need definitions cannot be voiced, or only with great difficulty. The ability to contest dominant norms and practices, animportant feature of citizenship and democratic participation, is therefore restricted.

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