In France, with Europe's largest population of immigrant Muslims, debate rages about what it means to be French.
Incredible pictures of life for a group of illegal mainly Muslim immigrants of African origin in France.
The French government estimates that there are 400,000 illegal immigrants inside its borders and that over the past 20 years they have deported half of that number, showing at best, this issue has benn drawn to a stalemate.
In the 18th arrondissement of Paris lies an austere compound of brick and steel which has been transformed into a safe haven, now home to an organization of more than 3,000 members: The Coordination des Sans Papiers 75.
Made up of 4 different collectives representing people from 5 continents, CSP75 manages to give one coherent voice to thousands of men and women striving to gain acceptance in France.
With no support from NGO's, and new labor laws making it increasingly difficult to find work, most of these men and women live off of 20-30 euros a month.
They have been living in this factory since July 17, 2009 with no heat or showers, and few beds.
Besides praying (99% of the collective is Muslim), there is little routine in the lives of the members except for the constant fear of being deported and the permanent desire to attain working papers.
A strict rule of law exists within the cooperative and is followed without exception. No alcohol is allowed inside, no one under the influence may enter, and after 1 a.m. the doors to the factory shut. There are security guards working around the clock, and everyone is responsible for cleaning their rooms, the collective bathrooms and the common areas.
Men and women cannot sleep in the same room, even if they're married, and children must go to school.
Each of the 4 collectives within the organization holds elections and nominate 30 members to the board of Delegates who then negotiate with the French government on behalf of their constituents.
With weekly peaceful protests, and one free daily meal distributed to its members, the cooperative has established itself as a legitimate movement that is reflecting the values of the society they hope to be a part of.
While the debate over national identity continues, the coordination hopes to remind the French and international community that they do exist, they are organized, and they want to work legally.
Immigrants to France have started to organize, not only to share survival skills but also to learn about their host culture and to develop a responsible profile in their new society.
These photographs are from a young photographer called Lee Hoagland, who has just completed an internship with the VII/Network Photo Agency.
Telegraph
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