National Conference On Racism In A Global Context

Narratives of Australian Muslim Women: The Impact of Transnational Terrorism since 9/11

Melissa McEwen (Notre Dame University)

Diane Costello (Notre Dame University)

Terrorism; 'Muslims', 'fundamentalist', 'Al Qaida', and 'September 11' have become common-place in both the Australian and international media. Most disturbing both the media and governments propagate the associated climate of fear. Threat of terrorism stems from a multitude of fears; non-Muslim fear or Islamaphobia; based on a lack of understanding and misperceptions about Muslims, terrorism fear, and fear of change if Australia encourages Islamic practices and values. While the struggle for peaceful relations when there is a clash of values is not a new phenomenon.Failing to explore ways Islamic and non-Islamic values coexist in Australian society is a backward step for a nation that idealizes multiculturalism.

Applying grounded theory methodologies the narrativess captured the lived experiences of Australian Muslim women negotiating the socio-political influences since 9/11 and specifically the resilience and positive impact they contribute within the Australian community. The overarching themes revealed the following: difficulty in distinguishing between religion and culture and whether these issues can be divided; the shift in self-identity at personal and societal levels, and achieving balance in living simultaneously as Australian and Muslim members of society given adverse mainstream reactions to the Muslim community since September 11.

Session 7, Stream 2

Date & Time: Saturday 10 November (1.35pm)

Location : ECL4

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Voices of Muslim women

Wajma Padshah (Muslim Women's Support Centre of WA (Inc))

Some of the challenges and issues of prejudice and mostly personal security issues regarding Muslim women's grievances have received token attention. Studies on the needs and concerns of Muslim women have identified some central issues concerned with their empowerment and opportunities for seeking redress for vilification as will be illustrated in the findings of a recent study by Melissa McEwen from the University of Notre Dame titled "Narratives of Australian Muslim Women - The Impact of Transnational Terrorism Since 9/11" which substantiates the concerns that we outline.

In the prevailing situation there is scant recognition of religious vilification which has become a highly salient issue for Muslims and Muslim women in particular since the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Research has highlighted the adverse effects of religious vilification which includes isolation (the many experiences of Muslim women indicate exclusion in the public space), lack of self esteem, experiences of hostility, harassment and abuse, criticism and ridicule of dress as well as employment opportunities. Existing racial vilification legislation covers discrimination against people on the basis of race, descent, ethnic or national origin or nationality and does not include religious belies. The purpose of the legislation is to prevent less favourable treatment of individuals/groups because of race, colour, decent, national origin or nationality. The less favourable treatment stops individuals from fully enjoying their human rights and fundamental basic freedoms. In our presentation we will highlight the very modest progress made towards addressing these issues.

Session 7, Stream 2

Date & Time: Saturday 10 November (2.15pm)

Location : ECL4