Engagement in knowledge production, authentication, and empowerment: A community-based participatory research project with Moroccan immigrants in Spain

Abstract

As frontline service providers, social workers need in-depth knowledge about Muslim immigrants to provide culturally and religiously informed services. The dynamic collaboration of Spanish social workers, immigration lawyers, anthropologists, and a group of Moroccan immigrants developed and implemented a community-based participatory research project in Madrid, Spain. From an informative workshop on the Moroccan Family Code, the project evolved into a collaborative space that enabled immigrants to process their struggles and concerns while authenticating their identity as Muslims living in a predominately Christian milieu. Muslim immigrants and social service providers privilege mutual education, support, and encouragement to advocate for resources.