In the Shadow of Islamophobia (Routledge Research in Race and Ethnicity)

This book explores the multifaceted experiences of British Turks, particularly focusing on how they navigate and negotiate Islamophobia in contemporary British society. It delves into the complexities of identity, ethnicity, and religion, shedding light on the unique ways in which British Turks respond to and reshape the discourses surrounding Islamophobia. By examining the intersection of Turkish secularism, national identity, and global socio-political dynamics, this book offers a nuanced understanding of how Islamophobia is both experienced and deflected within this community.

Through a combination of in-depth interviews, ethnographic insights, and analysis of social discourses, the book highlights how British Turks engage in practices of passing and identity negotiation. It uncovers how these strategies are informed by broader themes such as Brexit, cosmopolitanism, and the legacy of Turkey’s relationship with Europe. This study challenges monolithic interpretations of Islamophobia, presenting a more diverse and intricate portrayal of its impact on different Muslim communities.

This book is an essential resource for scholars and students of Sociology, Criminology, Cultural Studies, and Religious Studies, as well as policymakers and practitioners working in multicultural and multi-ethnic contexts. It will be of particular interest to those studying the intersections of race, religion, and identity in the Middle East and Contemporary Europe.

Özge Onay is a University Teacher within the Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy department at Loughborough University, UK. With a deep focus on race, racism, migration, and identity within racialised-minority communities, Onay has conducted significant fieldwork in the UK, Turkey, and the Netherlands, investigating the systemic discrimination faced by marginalised communities in these countries. Her findings have been published in high-impact journals. As a scholar of Alevi origin and a Turkish Person of Colour, Onay brings a unique perspective to her work. Her personal experiences of exclusion and her commitment to understanding and challenging racism, Islamophobia, and other forms of discrimination drive her work. Her expertise and passion for teaching and research continue to contribute to the advancement of sociology, criminology and the fight against social injustice.