Internal Feelings of Hijab: The Lived Experiences of Chinese Young Muslim Women in Guangzhou

Abstract

Ethnic identity is considered a fundamental aspect that provides an individual with a sense of belonging and commitment to a particular ethnic group. Wearing Hijab, for example, is a major consensus and obligation for Muslim women. This article focuses on the status of the hijab among young Muslim women in Guangzhou, China. Living in one of the world's socialist states, they are struggling with their identity and faith as a minority. This paper study of how they negotiate their ethnic identities within and outside their families. The study draws data gathered from semi-structured interviews with nine young Muslim women. The findings suggest (1) Ethnic identity is a dynamic process. (2) Social and cultural contexts have great effects on an individual’s ethnic identity development. (3) Ethnic identity is multidimensional: family, friends, gender, and religion play vital roles in the process of achieving a positive ethnic identity. Prior to this, Muslim women find Hijab as one of the major barriers to living in mainstream society. They choose to wear Hijab or not, based on the above reasons. They may find out more possible ways of educating their members to consider religion as a potential source of empowerment and strength in their identity.