“Secret” – fine art photo by Ali Mehdi Zaidi
The struggle of Muslim homosexuals in Pakistan, South Asia, or as expatriates is not just about LGBTQ rights but part of the larger fight for inclusion and pluralism within Islam. My essay published in The Boston Globe Ideas section (July 31, 2016) on South Asian and Muslim attitudes towards homosexuality, reproduced below with additional links, info and photos, as well as parts not included in the final published version. The attack in the Orlando gay nightclub put the spotlight not just on the perpetrator, but his victims — Muslim gay (queer) folk who are particularly vulnerable to homophobia besides facing Islamophobia in the West, and receiving little or no support from the Muslim community at home and abroad. Plus they are now increasingly targeted by extremists claiming legitimacy from Islam. Thanks to all those who took the time to speak to me, gave feedback and entrusted me with their stories, and to the Boston Globe editors for their empathy and openness. Continue reading
Filed under: Art and activism, Culture, Human rights, Islam, Southasia | Tagged: Deepa Mehta, Eiynah, Fawad Khan, Fire, gay rights, hijra, Islam and homosexuality, Kapoor and Sons, khwaja sera, Muslim LGBTQ, My Beautiful Laundrette, My Chacha is Gay, Orlando attack, Purdah, religion and homosexuality, Transgenders | 4 Comments »
Journeys to democracy 