White Muslim convert in the UK : beyond integration paradigm and the politics of “the other”

Abstract

The notion of Islam as incompatible with British values is still exist in the body of British society. But what occurs when an individual identified as Muslim cannot be categorized as 'outsider' or 'brown'? In what ways does broader society define and interpret their identities? The white British Muslim demographic presents a compelling subject for exploration. Muslims, whether through conversion or heritage from converted parents or grandparents. Their presence challenge racialized representations of Muslims as 'brown bodies.' They also interrogate the implications of being white and English, Scottish, Northern Irish, or Welsh identities that are frequently linked to Christianity. Therefore, the aim of this research is to explore how the interplay of "whiteness" and "Muslimness" in contributes to gradual decline while simultaneously sustaining the racial hierarchy. Furthermore, the main argument of this study is that, while white converts challenge the common binaries between Islam and whiteness by embodying both identities, simultaneously, they sustain the rachial hierarchy particularly within Muslim community by embodying their white privilege in their daily life. Additionally, I will utilize Leon Moosavi’ theory of Re-racialization as the theoretical framework of this research and hope can give more nuance of how white Muslim converts engage with and perpetuate racial inequalities in Britain. This research will address two primary research questions. First: To what extent do white Muslim converts challenge and reinforce racial inequality? Secondly, in what ways do white Muslim converts articulate their identity following their conversion? Conversely, qualitative research will serve as the primary method for this study. I will employ interview data from white Muslim converts, drawing on previous research including journal articles, books, news sources, and online resources. Furthermore, to strengthen the credibility of this research, I will include my in-depth interviews with several white convert students. This approach will allowes me to broaden my exploration and comprehension of the intricate social phenomena related to Islam and British values.