ABSTRACT
The role of Muslim women in Western societies has been the subject of much debate, with controversy focusing on the extent of their freedom and independence in comparison to other women. As civil institutions enmeshed in social, cultural, political, and economic networks, museums and libraries are inevitably affected by these discourses. Whereas the chapter on the MeLa (European Museums in an Age of Migrations) Project in this collection offers general propositions for migration museums across the continent, this chapter analyzes in depth the integration activities that have been conducted in two Norwegian cultural institutions, paying particular attention to the ways they construct the subject positions of Muslim women. Specifically, I argue that when referencing the dominant discourse of modernity along with its unquestioned celebration of progress, institutions may depict Muslim women as dependent, lacking freedom and agency. By marginalizing these migrants in this way, cultural institutions leave intact the image of Norway as a generally harmonious middle-class society. On the other hand, exhibitions that focus on Islam and its complexities offer a more nuanced portrait rather than taking a predominantly Eurocentric perspective. They may promote greater appreciation and inclusion of Muslim women even as they encourage visitors to understand the great diversity that exists in every society.
