This week on 4th May, as part of myGwork’s exploration and celebration of faith in the LGBTQ+ community, the LGBTQ+ professional networking platform will be hosting an event to learn more about the Islamic faith.
As the holy month of Ramadan comes to an end and Muslim people worldwide prepare to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with family, friends and neighbours, many LGBTQ+ Muslims say they often feel left out, or ostracised by their family members.
Historically, Islamic scholars have viewed homosexuality as sinful and many still continue to believe that. As a result, many Muslim leaders and scholars condemn same-sex relationships; and families and communities have been known to ostracise queer Muslims.
ADDRESSING ANTI-LGBTQ+ ATTITUDES
However, things are slowly changing. Several groups supportive of gay Muslims have sprung up in countries like the US and the UK in recent years, such as Muslims for Progressive Values; Muslim Alliance for Sexual and Gender Diversity, Hidiyah LGBT; Imaan; Queer Arabs; etc. Thanks to these groups and more openly gay Imams like Daayiee Abdullah in the US, an increasing number of Muslims worldwide want to address anti-LGBTQ+ attitudes.
The panel, on Wednesday 4 May 2022 (at 4pm BST), will highlight the experiences of LGBTQ+ people who are Muslim; or from a Muslim culture or heritage, especially during this holy month. Speakers include:
- Ejel Khan, Co-ordinator at the Muslim LGBT Network
- Alia Ramna, Welsh Ballroom Queen
- Laila El-Metoui, Equity Educator at LemEducation.com
- Rahim El Habachi, Creative Associate at National Theatre Wales
- Osman, Outreach at Hidayah
Click here for more information about the event and/or to sign up.
Here’s some advice on how to better support Muslim employees/coworkers observing Ramadan. Click here to read more.
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