A research project led by Safiya Hamis, University of Birmingham.
About the project
The representation of Muslim women is a critical area of research that challenges traditional narratives in the academy and in wider UK society. Black Muslim women's study provides a distinctive perspective on the interplay of gender, ethnicity, religion, and space.
For instance, Muslim women are frequently depicted in the western media as being silent and submissive, and frequently denied access to fundamental human rights.
However, Safiya's PhD research has enabled her to comprehend that Islam, in northern Nigeria but potentially also in the UK, is a tool for women to express and empower themselves. Rather than a cause of deprivation of their rights, Islamic identity is a platform that enabled women to be empowered and to express their opinions.
Muslim feminist geographies explore how Muslim women experience and navigate their social, political and cultural environments, challenging stereotypes and promoting empowerment.
Muslim feminist geographies reveal the diverse realities faced by Muslim women and the ways they resist or conform to societal expectations. The representation of Muslim feminist geographies is essential to tackle important issues of gender, religion, and space that are often overlooked or misunderstood in mainstream discourses.
Increased representation of Muslim women would highlight the diverse experiences across different cultural, social, and geographical contexts, effectively challenging stereotypes and misconceptions.
Opportunities to get involved
Please look out for upcoming workshops:
Students
Join us for a captivating session where students will engage in interactive discussions about diversity, representation, and the experiences of Black Muslim women.
Educators and teachers
This workshop offers a space for educators to reflect on and challenge traditional, Western-centric perspectives in geography. We will connect this to the geographies of Muslim women, discussing ways to decolonising geographical knowledge.
Professionals and field practitioners
This session aims to facilitate dialogue on best practices for creating more equitable and inclusive environments. The workshop offers a space for professionals to consider strategies for fostering the inclusion and representation of Black Muslim women within their professional fields.
If you would like to learn more or get involved, please email geogforall@rgs.org and your interest will be shared with Safiya.
