Immigrant women and religious social networks

Abstract

Canada has one of the highest rates of immigration per capita in the world. This has led to a highly diverse population, particularly in large urban centres like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. However other parts of the country, or what are referred to as non-traditional receiving societies, are working to attract more immigrants. Statistics Canada data reveal that the Maritimes is a region with low levels of ethnic and religious diversity, but that is beginning to change. Increasing levels of ethno-religious diversity in the population can be a challenge in terms of social cohesion. This chapter explores the role of immigrant women's social networks as they settle into Maritime society. Based on qualitative data, the analysis compares the roles that Christian and Muslim immigrant women's religious social networks play in the development of social capital. Social capital can contribute to immigrant women's self-confidence, well-being, and ability to fulfill their dreams for a better life. Ethno-religious social networks can also assist immigrant women as they individually and collectively negotiate their religious identities and practices, deciding which aspects to emphasize, reshape, and let go of in the Canadian context.