Secular Muslim Feminism: An Alternative Voice in the War of Ideas

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Secular Muslim feminists are involved in challenging Islamic fundamentalism and gender inequalities from within non-religious frameworks. They emphasise the indispensable role of secularism and secular spaces to ensure equality for all. Widely celebrated among 'elite' circles in the West, the Far-Right and neo-Orientalists place them as Other while some feminists and sections of the Left see them as Islamophobes. They have also experienced abuse, harassment and death threats from Islamists. This book examines the voices and ideas of secular Muslim feminists from Europe and the Middle East to present an alternative to these binary narratives. Drawing on the authors 15 years of feminist activism, observations and conversations with founders and leaders of various organisations, the book argues that binary conceptions of Muslim women as either victimised and powerless or empowered, militant and dignified are both inadequate and outdated. The book is based on secular Muslim feminist writings and public speeches and the author suggests that by recognising these women, and engaging with their diverse aspirations, a new path for Muslim womens rights and Islam can be seen. Previous scholarship has paid a great deal of attention to publicly pious Muslim women activists who fit the image of an authentic Muslim woman. This book is the first dedicated to secular Muslim feminists and the significance of their work and positionality.

Reviews

The book is a vital contribution to the ongoing public discourse on the contested landscape of lived secularism, secular Muslims, and the quest for gender equality. The author skilfully integrates her personal journey into the narrative. She adeptly uses her experience as a gateway into a multidimensional and nuanced discussion of social change and gender ideology. Over the decades, Muslims have grappled with their identity, torn between a fear of modernity and a desire for it, with gender identity providing a focal point. * Homa Hoodfar, Professor of Anthropology, Emerita, Concordia University, Canada *
This is a phenomenal book that sheds light on this important yet hitherto under-researched topic: Secular Muslim Feminism. Dr Hind Elhinnawy, a leading expert in the field, draws on over two decades of feminist activism and interactions with diverse organisations in the Middle East and Europe to uncover this contested concept and challenge prevailing narratives. The book proposes a re-evaluation of the relationship between religion and gender equality within diverse cultural frameworks. This is essential reading at an urgent moment. * Dr Irene Zempi, Associate Professor in Criminology, Nottingham Trent University *
This is a timely and important book with insightful and engaging discussions around human rights and the marginalisation of women of colour. Hinds analysis is rigorous, critical and exposes the importance of hidden narratives and the complexity of identity politics, the varied nature of activism and the way mainstream perspectives often fail to incorporate diversity in discussing some aspects of victimisation. This is a must read for developing a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the priorities of activism, empowerment, and the ways in which Muslim feminists challenge religious fundamentalism, perceived gender norms and often go beyond the confines of normative, white, mainstream perspectives. * Dr Angus Nurse, Professor of Law and Environmental Justice, ARU Law School, UK *

Author Bio

Hind Elhinnawy is Lecturer in Criminology at Nottingham Trent University, UK. She has been a dedicated feminist for over 15 years. Her work on gender-focused social and political activism has led to law and policy reform in Egypt. Her first book, Rethinking Gender in the New Muslim Public Sphere (2012) explored the ways in which Islamic values are created and reformulated for young women.