Muslim women wearing the niqab in Spain: Dialogues around discrimination, identity and freedom

Garcia-Yeste, Carme; Miri-Zeguari, Ouarda El; Álvarez, Pilar; Morlà, Teresa

Abstract:

The niqab provokes a heated debate in European societies and generates intolerance towards women who wear it. Some of the explanations used to criticize this Muslim garment refer to the idea that women wear the niqab as a form of patriarchal oppression. Furthermore—especially after the terrorist attacks perpetrated by Islamic extremists—the niqab is seen as a symbol of religious radicalization. We carried out 10 communicative daily life stories with Muslim women wearing the niqab in Spain, to explore the adverse experiences that they face, as well as the ways to transform them. Our analysis, informed by a communicative approach, revealed different forms of discrimination, such as prejudice, personal attacks and social isolation. Furthermore, it revealed some opportunities to transform these experiences, through the equality of differences, the egalitarian dialogue, and the support of faith-based organizations. Ultimately, our findings illustrated participants’ persistent defense of their right to express their religious identity.

Year:

2020

Type of Publication:

Article

Keywords:

Niqab; Muslim women; Spain; Identity; Freedom

Journal:

International Journal of Intercultural Relations

Volume:

75

Pages:

95-105

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2020.02.003