South Asian Women in East London

Abstract

This article examines the impact of education on South Asian women's participation in traditional practices of `arranged marriages' and dowries. It is based upon research carried out by the author in East London. Sixty in-depth interviews were conducted with South Asian women, as well as participant observation of living with a South Asian community for a period of six months. The article explores which women participate in `arranged marriages' and receive dowries and which do not. The data indicate that women with high levels of education are rejecting certain aspects of their traditions (`arranged marriages' and dowries). However, women who continue the practices of `arranged marriages' and dowries have lower levels of education. They feel the continuation of such practices are part of their own South Asian identity in British society. The research demonstrates that women's level of education affects their participation in traditional South Asian practices. For some British-born South Asian women a process of redefinition is taking place. Their identities are shifting, complex and multifaceted and take on new meanings as they choose whether or not to participate in South Asian traditions.