Hi, I'm a Masters student at the University of Strathclyde. I am writing a thesis on 'Islamophobia' in Glasgow and I am looking to recruit participants for some group discussions in the near future. Below is an abstract of my thesis.

‘Islamophobia’ has become somewhat of a ‘buzzword’ in recent years however there is recognition that it may not be an ideal term (Runneymede Trust, 1997; Halliday, 1999; Marranci, 2004). The term has been used extensively since the publication of the Runneymede Trusts ‘Islamophobia:  A Challenge for Us All’ however despite its currency even the Runneymede Trust admit “the word is not ideal, but recognisably similar to ‘xenophobia’; and ‘europhobia’ and is a useful shorthand way of referring to dread or hatred of Islam” (Runneymede Trust, 1997: 1). There also appears to be a lack of empirical based evidence about the affects of anti-Islamic discourse upon the Muslim communities of Britain, furthermore such research has often tended to concentrate on either ‘problem cities’ in the  North of England or on case-studies of larger cities such as London (Allen and Neilson, 2002; Githens-Mazer and Lambert, 2009).  The Runnymede Trusts (1997) definition of Islamophobia remains relevant and dominant however there is scope to develop the term since 9/11 and the ‘war on terror’ as there is evidence to suggest that incidences of Islamophobia has become more intensified in recent years. Abbas (2005) argues that “Since 9/11, the situation has both deteriorated and intensified. Islamophobia has gained such a discursive prevalence that western European society is becoming even more uncritically receptive to an array of negative images and perceptions about Islam and Muslims” (Abbas, 2005: 29). This research will explore the affect of Islamophobia upon sections the Muslim community of Glasgow. It will enable the re-evaluating of Islamophobia through dialogue from those affected by such stereotypes and stigmatization. Furthermore, it will investigate how Islamophobic discourse has been received by those affected by it and create a narrative of experiences and incidences.

If you are interested in taking part, or simply wish to know more about my research please feel free to contact to me via e-mail. marion.e.dodds@strath.ac.uk

I look forward to hearing from you.

Marion Dodds