ISLAM AND LGBTIQ+ PEOPLE

RY member Rafiqah shares her connection with her faith as well as some tips for other LGBTIQ+ Muslim people

“The common misconception that LGBTQ+ is a sin comes from the misinterpretation of Islamic texts both from bigoted Muslims and non Muslims who have their biases. What Islam focuses more on is helping the oppressed through charity which are instilled in the concepts of sadaqa, zakat and Ramadan. Being transgender and non heterosexual doesn’t interfere in being a good Muslim because Islam encourages us to seek knowledge and knowing that being rainbow isn’t inherently an evil thing has put me at ease and removed doubt in my mind. Islam teaches about embracing diversity and that is something I do” - Rafiqah

Tips For Other LGBTIQ+ Muslim People

	•	If you know you are a good person your sexuality and/or gender should not matter
	•	Be open minded and have an open heart
	•	Do your research, avoid biased sources and people
	•	Remember there was no persecution against queer people until after colonialism and the rise of an extremist view. Islam is not extreme, there are plenty of references to same gender lovers and Mukhannathun is an umbrella term for gender diverse people, specifically transgender women
	•	When reading Hadiths or any Islamic texts, understand the context. People can use texts and certain verses to demonise you without even understanding the proper context
	•	Remember to ask yourself: do my actions cause harm to others? If not, be yourself
 - Rafiqah