Abstract

Anti-Muslim hostility in France permeates a variety of settings (media representations, job market, daily interactions, etc.). While some studies have measured the extent of the stigmatization and discrimination faced by French Muslims, we still know little on how Muslims respond to these. Drawing on sociological research on lived experiences of racism, this paper charts how a specific group of Muslims (community leaders) explain, rebut, and cope with anti-Muslim hostility. In doing so, the paper expands our understanding of antiracist repertoires by examining what appears as primarily non-confrontational strategies, in particular conflict-deflation and self-management. In the case of the Muslim community leaders I studied, they emphasize the importance of good manners and exemplary behavior in response to stigmatization and discrimination, mobilizing a socially-situated set of values encompassing politeness, discretion and religious observation.

Reference

Margot Dazey, “Polite responses to stigma and discrimination. The case of French Muslim leaders”, IAST Lunch Seminar, Toulouse: IAST, December 17, 2019, 12:45–13:45, room Cafeteria New Building.