The Agency of Muslim Women as Mothers and Mothered

This chapter addresses the intergenerational identities of British Muslim women, a topic that has been relatively understudied in existing research. With a focus on agency, family, and education, the chapter explores the diverse identities of British Muslim women, emphasizing their agency in shaping their identities within an intergenerational context. This is particularly significant in countering media representations of Muslim women as passive and lacking agency. The study delves into the complexities of identity, agency, and memory in relation to the experiences of Muslim women in Britain. The chapter highlights the interconnectedness of identity fluidity and agency, showcasing how both factors influence the construction and reconstruction of intergenerational identities among British Muslim women. It investigates the role of gender roles and relationships in transmitting cultural beliefs and practices across generations. The concept of collective memory is employed to analyze the discourse on British citizenship, identity, and belonging, particularly in the context of multiculturalism. By examining mother-daughter relationships and oral history interviews, the chapter demonstrates the active agency of British Muslim women in shaping their identities within an intergenerational context. It challenges the monolithic understanding of generations, suggesting that exposure to British social institutions rather than age is a defining factor. The chapter concludes by illustrating how the hijab serves as a floating signifier through which Muslim women access and engage with collective memories, affecting their understanding of Islam and their place in society. The research underscores the dynamic nature of agency and intergenerational identity among British Muslim women.