When Town Hall Turns to Mecca

The story "When Town Halls Turn to Mecca" outlines the changes occurring throughout Europe as more Islamic immigrants move into communities and as more Muslim citizens and immigrants begin to understand and use political power.  In some cases there has been resistance from the European majority, for example some cities in England, Germany, Brussels, and Italy have protested building of mosques.  Despite some of the contentious rhetoric, there have been many examples of successful collaboration on local levels; the article reads, "Yet talk of civilisational war in Europe's cobblestoned streets is out of line in one respect: it understates the ability of democratic politics, especially local politics, to adapt to new social phenomena."  For example, mosque built in Brussels, at first protested, is built to include various needed community facilities. In general, the article argues that despite areas of contention, democratic integration, especially at the local level, is happening.  

Other Resources:
Young, Muslim, and French