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# Freedom of Speech
Charlie Hebdo publishes controversial cartoon of drowned Syrian toddler
Some people claim the images mock Aylan Kurdi.
Warning: This post contains images that some readers may find distressing.
FRENCH SATIRICAL MAGAZINE Charlie Hebdo has sparked controversy by depicting the drowned Syrian toddler who washed up on a beach in Turkey.
In January, 12 people were shot dead at the weekly magazine’s office in Paris. Five others were killed in several related attacks. The magazine was targeted after drawing the prophet Mohammed.
The magazine has now published an image, not on the cover, that depicts three-year-old Aylan Kurdi face down in the sand.
The accompanying text reads: “So near his goal…” and a sign on the beach states: “Promo! 2 kids menus for the price of one.”
Another cartoon depicts a man who appears to be Jesus next to the drowned child with the caption: “Proof that Europe is Christian. Christians walk on water. Muslim children sink.”
Some people have labelled the images racist and accused Charlie Hebdo of mocking Kurdi. However, other refute this – saying the cartoons mock the Western reaction to the refugee crisis.
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What do you think? Are the cartoons offensive, or are people failing to see their true meaning?
Read: Charlie Hebdo cartoonist says he won’t draw Mohammed again
Read: Man who hid under sink in Paris attacks slams media for ‘revealing his location’
