Islam and Migration: the challenges of being a Muslim in Britain today Flashcards
Islam and migration: the challenges of being a Muslim in Britain today:
An examination of the problems created by segregation and assimilation for Muslim communities and individuals living in Britain today, with a focus on
food,
dress,
practice of religion and,
education.
The role of the Muslim Council of Britain.
The Muslim Council of Britain represents the UK’s diverse Muslim population, which makes up 5% of the total. Many are migrants or descendants of migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Somalia, Yemen, and other countries, with some converting to or leaving Islam.
Muslims have a long history in Britain, from medieval travelers to Yemeni sailors settling in Cardiff in 1889. Migration increased post-WWII, with many initially coming for work before their families joined them. Most live in cities like London, Bradford, and Birmingham, often in lower-income areas.
British Muslims belong to various sects, and mosques range from grand structures like London Central Mosque to small converted spaces. Many have excelled in politics, media, and other fields, while experiences of integration vary. Some feel Britain is a haven of tolerance, while others face prejudice and discrimination.
Segregation?
Segregation refers to the separation of groups, though Britain does not have enforced segregation like apartheid. However, Muslim communities often concentrate in certain areas, such as Tower Hamlets and East Birmingham, leading to perceptions of isolation. While multiculturalism promotes coexistence, some argue further integration is needed.
Surveys show most British Muslims feel they belong and oppose violence, but social conservatism sets them apart from wider society. Islamophobia can make integration harder, pushing some into isolation. Concerns about radicalization exist, though many believe extremism stems from personal issues rather than Muslim communities.
Assimilation?
Assimilation, as defined by Jenkins, encourages cultural diversity alongside equal opportunity, not the loss of national characteristics. Historically, migrants were urged to integrate by contributing to the economy while maintaining their own cultures. Recently, due to concerns about Islamist violence, assimilation has become a more prominent approach.
Muslims are encouraged to adopt shared British values, such as democracy and mutual respect, though some may disagree with certain aspects like homosexuality. Tolerance and respectful interaction are expected, even if cultural differences remain.
Hussein argues that Muslims are unfairly targeted in the media and government policies aimed at forcing them to assimilate. Malik, however, presents a positive view of assimilation, criticizing multiculturalism for limiting opportunities and advocating for a more open integration into British society.
Dress?
The Quran encourages modest dress for both men and women, though it doesn’t specify exact clothing. Men may wear cultural attire like shalwar kameez or thobe, while some wear western clothing or prayer caps. Women’s dress, including the hijab or niqab, is debated—some see it as oppressive, while others view it as a symbol of faith and empowerment.
The face veil is controversial, seen by some as a barrier to integration and communication, while others support it for personal or religious reasons. The National Secular Society justifies banning the face veil for security, equality, and integration, but this conflicts with British values of individual liberty and tolerance.
Religious practice?
Muslims in Britain come from diverse backgrounds, with Shia, Deobandi, and Barelvi being the main groups. Deobandi Muslims focus on worship and avoiding politics, while Barelvi Muslims follow Sufi traditions. Salafi Islam is the fastest-growing movement, attracting youth with its straightforward practices.
Islamic identity is important for some Muslims in Britain, especially those feeling disconnected from both their homeland and British society. Religious practices, such as prayer and fasting, are adjusted to fit local conditions, like the long daylight hours during Ramadan.
Mosques and prayer rooms have been established in public spaces, and the UK government has focused on training British Imams and combating extremism through initiatives like the Prevent strategy. However, some Muslims argue that more should be done to encourage community involvement in counter-extremism.
Education?
Muslim children in Britain typically attend mainstream schools and madrassas, where they learn Arabic, prayers, and faith traditions. Some madrassas offer a Western-style curriculum, but reports of inappropriate teachings and corporal punishment have raised concerns. Cooperation with the government is encouraged to address these issues.
Some Muslims attend state-funded Islamic or Christian schools, but there have been concerns about the quality of education at some unapproved Islamic schools. Integration challenges exist, especially in areas with large Muslim populations, like Birmingham. Recommendations have been made to encourage more cultural mixing in schools.
The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), founded in 1997, represents British Muslims, but its unrepresentative leadership and political stances, such as opposing the Iraq war, have drawn criticism. The MCB has worked to combat Islamophobia and foster interfaith relationships, but its stance on social issues like homosexuality has been controversial.
