Your Grace the King of France

It is with great pleasure that I write this letter. Congratulations on your elevation to the throne. I

write this letter to inform you of our expectations as member of the demoiselles from the Ariege.

We have been in a state of rebellion and civil disobedience since the enactment of the forests act

of 1827 which restricted our usage of forests. Forests have been our major source of livelihood

traditionally. We have used forests for pasturing of our livestock, source of wood for fuel and

repairs of our homes, fishing, hunting and gathering. The restrictions against this use have

effectively limited our survival and led us to poverty. It is due to this that we have been in a

revolution. It is my prayer that you consider our social, economic and political rights during your

rule. We would like that our traditional rights be considered during your reign. We would ask for

the revision of the Forests Act, the tax code and other punitive rules that infringe our rights. It is

of great importance that we enjoy our God given rights and freedoms and be protected from the

excesses of power of government and the rich. Please ensure that all people are treated fairly

during your reign.

Kind Regards.

Yours

Felwa Alkahtani

Member of the Demoiselles from the Ariege

Reply

The Marquis of Champagne and Archbishop of Diognes.

I have read your letter to his Majesty the King of France with much surprise and astonishment.

Have you no shame? How can you advocate for the continued suffering of the peasants of Ariege

and all other disadvantaged people in France? Is that the way of God? The suffering of the

people of Ariege in the hands of the rich and government is uncalled for and should not be

supported by anyone. There needs to be equality and the guarantee of universal human rights in

government. I strongly disagree with your sentiments.

Yours,

Felwa Alkahtani

The Demoiselles of The Ariege