Integrate, Don’t Assimilate. | Dua'a Yaser Faquih | TEDxYouth@AISR

Summary

In a reflective talk, the speaker explores how living in a non-Muslim country, like Texas, has reshaped their religious identity. They discuss the concept of acculturation and share insights from their experience, emphasizing the importance of integration over assimilation. The speaker highlights how their upbringing and the influence of their mother encouraged them to embrace their faith while remaining open to other cultures. The discussion raises critical questions about identity, belonging, and how to foster acceptance and understanding in diverse environments for future generations.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Muslims living abroad often feel a stronger connection to their religious identity when they are in non-Muslim countries.
• 🤔 The question arises whether individuals feel more in touch with their faith when they are part of a minority group.
• 📚 Personal experiences play a crucial role in understanding one's religious identity, especially when adapting to a new culture.
• 🏡 In Saudi Arabia, the speaker felt no need to justify their identity, while in Texas, their Muslim identity became a focal point.
• 🔍 Encountering questions about their religion in Texas prompted the speaker to research and reflect on their beliefs.
• 🧥 The speaker’s identity transformed from a general descriptor in Saudi to being specifically identified as 'the Muslim girl' in Texas.
• 🔗 The four acculturation strategies discussed are assimilation, separation, integration, and marginalization.
• 🌟 Integration is portrayed as the most favorable strategy, allowing individuals to maintain their faith while engaging with the wider society.
• 💬 The speaker attributes their ability to express their identity to their mother, who exemplified integration by respecting both their faith and others.
• 🔄 The speaker emphasizes the importance of continuing to express one’s faith openly and challenges the stigma surrounding Islam.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the transcript?

The main topic is the relationship between religious identity and living in a non-mainstream cultural environment, particularly for Muslims living abroad.

How did the speaker's perception of their religious identity change after moving to Texas?

In Texas, the speaker felt more challenged to define their religious identity as they were now seen primarily as 'the Muslim' due to their different beliefs and practices, unlike in Saudi Arabia where their identity was more mainstream.

What are the four acculturation strategies presented by John W. Berry?

The four acculturation strategies are assimilation, separation, integration, and marginalization.

What does the assimilation strategy entail?

Assimilation involves completely neglecting one's original cultural or religious identity in favor of adopting a new one.

What does the integration strategy promote?

The integration strategy promotes the idea of practicing one's own faith while also being open to and incorporating aspects of the wider society.

What challenges did the speaker face in practicing their faith in a foreign country?

The speaker faced the challenge of seeking out opportunities to practice their faith, such as making time to pray or fast while at work or school, which was not as necessary in Saudi Arabia.

How did the speaker's upbringing influence their approach to religious identity?

The speaker's upbringing, particularly their mother's example, encouraged them to integrate their faith with respect for other beliefs, fostering pride in their identity.

What societal pressures can affect an individual's willingness to express their religious identity?

Societal pressures from technology and social media can lead individuals to feel that they must conform to mainstream ideals, causing discomfort or shame in expressing their own identity.

What conclusion did the speaker draw about why some individuals assimilate rather than integrate?

The speaker concluded that upbringing and perspective play a significant role in whether individuals feel comfortable practicing their faith in new environments.

What is the speaker's message regarding future generations and religious identity?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of encouraging future generations to integrate their identities rather than assimilate, fostering an environment where individuals can express their faith openly and confidently.