A compelling exploration of France’s 2004 law banning Islamic headscarves and other religious symbols in public schools—a decision that puzzled many for its perceived infringement on religious freedom and its unexpected support as a solution to diverse social concerns. Anthropologist John Bowen, drawing on his experiences in France, unpacks the political, cultural, and historical roots of the controversy. Through interviews, media analysis, and everyday observations, Bowen reveals how long-standing secular ideals, fears of radical Islam, and broader societal anxieties fueled the debate.