“I am not who you think I am”: Multiple, hybrid and racialized identities of Canadian Muslim youth in the negotiation of belonging and citizenship
Abstract
The challenges faced by Muslim youth in Calgary, Vancouver and Toronto in developing a meaningful and stable identity in an era of global conflicts, collective surveillance, and suspicion are explored. The study focuses on the negotiation of belonging and citizenship among Canadian Muslim youth, who navigate multiple, complex, and hybrid identities. 5 major themes were identified: navigation of multiple identities, religious identity and spirituality, media portrayals of Muslims, claiming inclusion and belonging in the face of anti-Muslim racism, and recommendations for positive youth development. By listening to the voices of Canadian Muslim youth, policymakers, practitioners, Muslim communities, and organizations can develop strategies to support their development.
Notes
Community organizations: n/a
Future research / gaps identified:
- Explore the experiences of Muslim youth from different age groups, socioeconomic backgrounds, and geographic locations in Canada
- Conduct quantitative studies to provide statistical data to support the findings of this study
- Identify the impact of anti-Muslim racism on the mental health and well-being of Canadian Muslim youth.
- Assess the role of parents and families in shaping the identity development of Canadian Muslim youth
Integration timeline: newcomers not defined
Key findings
- Canadian Muslim youth navigate multiple, complex, and hybrid identities
- Religious identity and spirituality play a significant role in the lives of Canadian Muslim youth
- Media portrayals of Muslims have a negative impact on the self-perception of Canadian Muslim youth
- Anti-Muslim racism is a significant challenge for Canadian Muslim youth in claiming inclusion and belonging in society
- Mosques should serve as community institutions for engaging youth instead of just being religious or worship places
- Positive youth development can be promoted by initiating societies and clubs for Muslim youth to engage them in social activities like sports, welfare, and human services work
Key populations: Muslim youth in Calgary, Toronto or Vancouver
Key recommendations
- Promote activities to establish connections among youth in Muslim communities
- Take governmental action to curb the negative portrayal of Muslims in media
- Increase religious education for Muslim youth and provide incentives to invite more youth to mosques
Locations: Calgary, AB; Toronto, ON; Vancouver, BC
Open access: No
