Talibés and Children’s Rights in Senegal Donna L. Perry Department of Sociology & Anthropology March 3, 2006

Talibé: Muslim child disciple (boy entrusted to live with and work for a marabout for many years)

Marabout: Islamic sage Teaches talibés to recite the Qur’an and performs many other religious duties (leading prayers, healing, officiating at ceremonies, resolving disputes, and preparing protective amulets)

Daara: informal school run by a marabout

See pictures on the website of “Arms of Love International, Talibé Program http://armsoflove.org/where_senegal_talibe.htm

Parents who send their children to live as talibés

B. Rural Critics: Wolof farmers who oppose the talibé institution

C. Urban Critics: Intellectuals & Islamic Fundamentalists who oppose the talibé institution

D. Marabouts and their devotees who lash back