Women of the Somali Diaspora: Refugees, Resilience and Rebuilding After Conflict

Somali mothers and daughters who came to Britain in the 1990s to escape civil war are the subject of this book. Joanna Lewis explores how they quickly recovered, mobilizing their networks, social capital, and professional skills, and how they inspired the next generation. She also reveals three histories: the women's personal history, a collective history of refugees as rebuilders, and the forgotten history and hidden legacies of Britain's colonial past.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 376 pages
\n Publication date: 09 September 2021
\n Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd
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This captivating book delves into the lives of Somali mothers and daughters who sought refuge in Britain in the 1990s, fleeing the devastating civil war that ravaged their homeland. Many of these women had never ventured beyond Somalia, lived a nomadic lifestyle, and were unfamiliar with the English language. They had also experienced the loss of loved ones and were grappling with the aftermath of trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Their stories begin with the war and genocide that unfolded in the north of Somalia, followed by harrowing journeys through refugee camps. Upon their arrival in London, these resilient women faced numerous challenges, including adapting to a new culture, navigating unfamiliar systems, and finding employment.

Yet, against all odds, they managed to recover and thrive. Joanna Lewis, in her insightful narrative, unveils the remarkable ways in which these women mobilized their networks, social capital, and professional skills to rebuild their lives. Their resilience and determination inspired the next generation, with many now caught between the allure of London and a deep-seated humanitarian impulse to return home. Lewis explores three interconnected histories in this book. Firstly, she delves into the personal histories of these women, shedding light on resilience as an individual, lived historical process that encompasses both positive and negative aspects. It reveals the inter- and intra-generational influences that shape resilience and the ways in which individuals navigate the challenges of war and displacement.

Secondly, Lewis offers a collective history of refugees as rebuilders, providing insight into the dynamism and resilience of the Somali diaspora. She highlights the contributions of these women to their communities and the broader society, showcasing their ability to adapt, innovate, and thrive in new environments. The book also delves into the forgotten history and hidden legacies of Britain's colonial past, which played a significant role in shaping the lives of these women and the broader Somali community. Lewis explores how the legacy of colonialism, including the exploitation of resources, the marginalization of communities, and the perpetuation of systemic inequalities, has contributed to the ongoing challenges faced by Somalis in both Somalia and Britain.

Through her storytelling, Lewis brings to light the power of women to heal the scars of war. The women featured in this book have not only survived the atrocities of civil war but have also emerged as agents of change and empowerment. Their stories serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of supporting and uplifting marginalized communities. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of migration, resilience, and the transformative power of community. It offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of Somali mothers and daughters and their journey to a new home, while also shedding light on the broader historical and social contexts that have shaped their experiences.

\n Weight: 650g\n
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781787384811\n \n