Migrancy and Liminal Identities: A Bhabha's Perspective on We Are All Birds of Uganda by Hafsa Zayyan

Abstract

This qualitative study examines Zayyan’s novel, We Are All Birds of Uganda (2021), through the postcolonial critique using Bhabha’s concept of liminality, particularly viewing the diasporic identity of South Asian Muslims in Uganda. The study employs the method of textual analysis for the interpretation of the text. The critical analysis further emphasizes the varied immigrants’ experiences, their voluntary and involuntary migrations, and their struggle for identity in the host land. Voluntary migration has depicted present-day London, and in-voluntary migration has been represented as forcible migration or expulsion of South Asians, particularly Muslims from Uganda. The story reconciles the old and new identities through the representation of a split timeframe. The findings of the study reveal the major characters’ fractured and volatile identities that become harmonious after the acceptance of various aspects of identity, and their hybrid identities become liminal. The study further reveals that despite the challenges, individuals with multi-generational diasporic identities have the potential to bring a unique perspective and rich cultural heritage to the communities they belong to. By embracing and celebrating their diverse identities, they can contribute to a more inclusive and multicultural world.