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Projects

At the Islamophobia Research Hub, our research projects focus on uncovering and addressing the complex and evolving manifestations of Islamophobia in Canada and beyond. From analyzing systemic biases, to mapping discursive formations, to exploring the lived experiences of Muslim communities, our work is rooted in community engagement, interdisciplinary approaches, and actionable outcomes. By bridging academic research with real-world advocacy, we aim to empower communities, inform policy, and foster a more inclusive society. Learn more about our projects below and check back in for updates.


Two pieces of paper with illustration of Palestinian flag and 'Freedom!' text

Islamophobia, Anti-Palestinian and Anti-Arab Racism: A Documentation Project

This project contributes to broadening our understanding of Islamophobia, anti-Palestinian and anti-Arab racism in Canada by documenting the rise in incidents of hate, discrimination and the curtailment of civil liberties in the aftermath of October 7, 2023. The project focuses on making visible the diversity of communities and people affected, and the range of types of incidents. The objective of this report is to provide the groundwork forfurther analyses, deeper probes, and strategy development in relation to combatting Islamophobia, anti-Arab and anti-Palestinian racism in Canada.


Aerial view of the Toronto skyline with CN Tower during a winter sunset.

Economic Integration of Muslims in Canada

While Muslim communities represent one of the most highly educated communities in Canada, employment data continue to reflect patterns of underemployment and higher rates of unemployment in many parts of the country. These figures are even higher for Muslim women and Black Muslims in Canada. This mixed-methods project explores the barriers faced by Muslim communities in accessing equitable economic opportunities, including employment discrimination, underemployment, and/or systemic exclusion. The research aims to produce actionable policy recommendations to promote greater economic inclusion for Canadian Muslims.  


Close-up of a microphone setup in a recording studio

Voices of Anger and Hope: Virtual and Ethnographic Narrative Strategies of Anger and Hope Adopted by Muslim Youth in Canada, Europe and the Maghreb

Drawing on the expertise of researchers, community groups and young adults in nine countries, the Voice of Anger and Hope project examines the ethnographic, virtual and digital aspects of Muslim and non-Muslim youth expressions of anger and hope. This SSHRC-funded partnership project led by Professor Abdelwahed Mekki-Barrada at the Université Laval (Québec) investigates the issues facing young Muslims from the perspective of the youth themselves in their own countries, while co-constructing workshops, storytelling sessions, podcasts, YouTube shorts and spoken word competitions. This participatory action-research project aims to find solutions, identify adaptation strategies and create culturally sensitive action models in a collaborative and creative way. The Islamophobia Research Hub will contribute community-based strategies and storytelling with youth groups from localities impacted by Islamophobic acts of violence. 


People inspect rubble after an earthquake in Jindires, Aleppo Governorate, Syria.

Systemic Biases in Humanitarian Aid and International Development Funding Regimes

The Systemic Biases in Humanitarian Aid and International Development Funding Regimes research project analyzes Western funding for and delivery of aid and development projects in Muslim-majority countries. Focusing on a cross-jurisdictional analysis and global policy architecture, this project focuses on the policies, practices and politics that enable any biases as well as propose solutions to address them.


A vibrant bohemian interior featuring colorful textiles, rugs, and wall decor in an eclectic setting.

Transnational Roundtable on Islamophobia

Bringing together Muslim human rights and civic engagement organizations, the Transnational Roundtable on Islamophobia project aims to create collaborative spaces for building transnational solutions to manifestations of Islamophobia.