Abu Saleh Mohammad Sowad

Concordia University, Canada

Title: Exploring the Perspectives: How Bangladeshi Men in Canada from Various Generations Define Womanhood

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Biography

Abu Saleh Mohammad Sowad (he/him) is a doctoral candidate in Social and Cultural Analysis at Concordia University. His research, supported by scholarships from FRQSC and Concordia, delves into the intersection of transnational migration, culture and gender in shaping the identities and lived experiences of Bangladeshi men in Canada.

Sowad holds a master's degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science, where he studied the interaction between transnational migration and the construction of masculinities among Bangladeshi men in the UK. His passion for gender studies began in Bangladesh, where he earned a bachelor’s and master's degree in women and gender studies from the University of Dhaka.

Sowad further contributes his expertise to the Concordia University Research Chair on Gambling, leading the research team on gender and gambling. His experience as a consultant with international NGOs has enriched his understanding of gender dynamics and social issues, further fueling his research.

Abstract

Thisstudy investigates the perceptions of femininities among migrant Bangladeshimen in Canada, aiming to deepen our understanding of gender roles shaped bydiasporic identities and experiences. By analyzing qualitative interviews withBangladeshi men residing in Canada, this research highlights how diversesocio-demographic factors influence their expectations and relationshipsregarding gender, thereby enriching the discourse on diasporic femininities.

TheCanadian Bangladeshi diaspora is characterized by significant diversity, wherethe concept of "Bangladeshiness" is complex and context-dependent. Itintersects with Canadian cultural norms, which often reflect male-centricvalues that privilege men. By exploring these dynamics, this study examines howparticipants conceptualize femininities within the frameworks of normativeBangladeshi culture, diasporic identity in Canada, and mainstream Canadianculture. It reveals how multiple socially and culturally constructed identitiesinteract, giving rise to diverse expressions of femininities.

Participantsgenerally associate women with emotional and interpersonal traits, often linkedto caregiving and domestic roles. While they are frequently viewed asnurturing, supportive, and empathetic, these positive attributes coexist withnegative stereotypes such as dependence, emotional volatility, and a lack ofassertiveness. When comparing Bangladeshi and Canadian women, participantshighlight distinct cultural differences. While many respondents commendBangladeshi women's commitment to family, they seldom question the underlyingsocietal factors that shape these choices.

Thisresearch contributes to a nuanced understanding of gendered discourses and theconstruction of femininities in specific cultural contexts. By revealing thepower dynamics, biases, and stereotypes that shape gender relations, itunderscores the interplay between gendered socialization and cultural context.Moreover, there is an emerging recognition among participants of the need for genderparity, suggesting a potential shift toward less hegemonic masculinities.Ultimately, this study enhances broader discussions on gender roles andfemininities across diverse cultural landscapes, offering valuable insightsinto the evolving nature of femininities within the Bangladeshi diaspora.