Narrating Masculinities: Racism, Nationalism and Belonging amongst Working-Class Men in Tyneside

Right-wing ideology and nationalism have gained traction
throughout Europe in recent years (Lifland, 2013; Antonsich,
2020). Amidst multi-disciplinary analysis of this growing
phenomenon, is an emerging body of research highlighting the
distinctly masculine tendencies of such ideologies (Kimmel,
2018; Ralph-Morrow, 2022). The proposed research seeks to
add to this scholarship by working at the intersections of local
identities, race and masculinities. It aims to explore how
everyday nationalism is embedded within broader structures of
patriarchy (hooks, 2013) and comes to shape and produce
forms of masculinity.
This study will draw upon biographical methods, conducting 40
interviews with male participants in Tyneside - a predominantly
white post-industrial area with a paucity of research on race
(Nayak, 2003). A gendered analysis will assist in examining
ways in which once normalised notions of masculinity can be
validated in right-wing ideology. The research avoids the
assumption that 'left behind' places and the men within them
are somehow inherently drawn to right-wing thinking. Instead, it
will explore how such widespread far-right narratives figure in
the biographies of men themselves, connect to their lived
experiences and produce particular versions of masculinity that
are embodied and enacted in place.
The research will advance current geographic scholarship, by
producing new understandings of the relationship between
masculinities, race and everyday nationalism in post-industrial
towns. Furthermore, the findings will have direct benefit for
both regional and national organisations when it comes
understanding and combating hate speech.