ABSTRACT

In the course of the second half of the twentieth century the UK experienced an unprecedented level of immigration. During these decades, Muslim communities grew, became more diversified and gained a political voice. British Muslims mobilised to achieve public recognition and accommodation of their religious needs. This did not happen overnight. British Muslim mobilisation went through phases, often spurred on by external catalysts, most recently the attacks of 11 September 2001 and 5 July 2005. This chapter traces community mobilisation in the paradoxical context of British multiculturalism and racism.