Presents an account of the author's struggle to found the movement called 'Ni putes ni soumises' (Neither whores nor doormats) aimed at shattering the law of silence about violence against women within the Muslim community. This book seeks to integrate French Muslims into contemporary French society.

Focusing on the repressive code of clothing and gender behaviour imposed on young women by a minority of Islamic fundamentalist men, Amara challenges supporters of those wearing the 'veil,' or Islamic headscarf, in French schools, analyses the motives behind such actions, and offers her own opinions as to its meanings. Moving, candid, and extremely timely, "Breaking the Silence" created a sensation when it was published in France, where it went on to win a number of awards.

Part One: Social Breakdown in the Projects
1 Daughter of the Housing Projects
2 The Status of Women in the 1990s
3 Between Invisibility and Rebellion
4 Sexuality in the Projects
5 From Neighborhood to Ghetto
6 Obscurantism, the Key to Regression
Part Two: An Act of Survival: The March and Its Success
7 Preparations for the March
8 The Success of the March
9 Is Feminism No Longer Relevant?
10 The Battle Ahead.