Visible and Vocal: The Intersection of Gendered Islamophobia and Muslim Women’s Political Priorities

Abstract

This study examines the intersectional impacts of Islamophobia and gender on American Muslim women, with a focus on their perceptions, political behavior choices, and policy priorities. Building on Beydoun and Sediqe’s theory of gendered Islamophobia, which highlights the uniquely gendered tropes that characterize Islamophobia, this article explores how these dynamics influence Muslim women’s perception of discrimination and political participation. Using data from surveys fielded in 2019, 2020, and 2023, three key findings emerge. First, Muslim women perceive discrimination as a more significant issue compared to Muslim men. Second, Muslim women are more likely to participate in women-specific protests, explaining the increased visibility of Muslim women in women’s social movements. Perceptions of discrimination were positively associated with an increased likelihood to participate. Third, Muslim women prioritize reproductive justice as a policy concern at higher rates than Muslim men. These findings contribute to the growing empirical literature on American Muslim women, situating their experiences within broader conversations on intersectionality, racialization, and women’s political engagement. The analysis underscores the vital role Muslim women play navigating the intersections of Islamophobia and gender, demonstrating how women’s rights issues remain important for Muslim women.