LGBT Muslim Organizations Claim the Right to Reconcile Faith and Homosexuality

  

"It may be a good Muslim and be gay." Moulana Muhsin says Hendricks, who along with Daayiee Abdullah (pictured) are the only known openly gay imams. Both have participated in the Calem, First International LGBT Muslim organization that has taken place this weekend in Paris.

Hendricks, who claims his right to be gay and Muslim, founded 13 years ago The Inner Circle, based in Cape Town (South Africa) and so far the only Muslim LGBT organization internationally. His goal is clear: "Fight the internalization of homophobia leading to the suicide of many Muslims and against gay marriages and the social pressure that forces gay Muslims to lead a double life."

At the Paris conference, in addition to The Inner Circle, integrated organizations have participated in whole or in part for LGBT Muslims, including HM2F French, Belgian Merhaba, Moroccan or Algerian Kifkif Abu Nawas, among others (some of them in clandestine situation in their countries). He has also attended the Spanish AMHO., Gay Muslim Association.

Their representatives have vindicated the compatibility between homosexuality and Muslim faith and have exchanged experiences on how to organize and reach more and more people in hostile environments. "We have no right to organize," said a young Algerian activist. "The best gateway is to adhere to the associations of HIV. We also try to create an entire internet network, an area less risky. In Algeria, homosexuality is a crime, that is always a vice imported from abroad. We claim both our homosexuality and our Algerian identity, "he explains.

"Someday, all Muslim countries to accept homosexuals," said Imam Moulana Muhsin hopeful Hendricks. "But it will take time. I do not know if I will live to see, "he adds ...

 

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