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Posted on 04/10/2003 2:22:14 PM PDT by NativeNewYorker
Scarcity of support groups for Britain's gay, lesbian and other non-heterosexual Muslims is highlighted in a new report sponsored by the ESRC which gives unique insight into the religious and social pressures on their lives.
Help groups offer a safe environment to explore the thorny issue of Islam and non-heterosexuality (particularly homosexuality) which the wider gay and lesbian community rarely provides, says Dr. Andrew Yip of the Nottingham Trent University.
Current efforts to provide support groups are embryonic and in great need of encouragement.
In the first study of its kind into the lives of British gay, lesbian and bisexual Muslims of Asian descent, most of those questioned were young, highly educated, in full-time employment and living in Greater London.
Dr. Yip found that how they managed their identities and lifestyles was very much influenced and shaped by their religious and cultural background, family and friends.
Religious censure of homosexuality pressurises many to compartmentalise their sexuality and religion.
Being gay is widely perceived within their community as a 'western disease' and a natural outcome of secularity, individualism and permissiveness, they told the research team.
To express their sexuality was not merely to defile their own moral character but the religious and cultural purity of the entire community.
Whilst some did not consider themselves practising Muslims, most accepted the importance of Islam in their lives. The women in particular recognised the significance of the 'Muslim' label as members of a religious and ethnic minority in British society.
Some Muslims gave in to the perceived incompatibility of their religion with their sexual orientation by ending the practice of their faith. Others managed to hold on to their religion by underplaying it.
Almost all argued that their sexuality was intrinsic and God-created. Trusting that God is compassionate and loving to all people, they saw their struggle as a 'test of life'.
Religious and cultural traits affect significantly their lives as non-heterosexuals, particularly the expectation and pressure to get married and concern about family honour.
Said Dr Yip:" Clearly, a non-heterosexual identity and lifestyle undermines these expectations and often complicates family relations.
"Some give in to pressure to get married, and having distanced themselves from the 'parental gaze' they get the space to explore their sexuality outside wedlock."
The study reveals that some try to re-frame Islamic teaching by distinguishing between traditional cultural practice based on heterosexuality and the inclusive principles of their faith, or by trying to reinterpret religious texts in the light of present day realities.
The non-heterosexual community is predominantly white, secular and male-oriented, says the report, particularly in places such as pubs and clubs.
Though the vast majority of those surveyed lived close to such venues, fewer than 30 per cent were active or regular participants. Cultural differences, such as levels of alcohol consumption and smoking, often complicated their experiences of these places. Though few complained of racism, most were seen as exotic and different. Some found this an advantage, whilst others thought it off-putting to be looked at and considered sexually appealing because of their ethnic origin.
Some were put off by questioning from white gays who, assuming that Islam and non-heterosexuality are strictly incompatible, appeared to be amazed by their sheer presence. Said Dr. Yip: "While there are signs of a support network for these Muslims there is much room for expansion."
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True, true, and true. However, God's compassion and love is not license to do whatever we want, but rather the imperative to live the lives he intends us to lead.
Hmm-hmm.
To paraphrase Dean Wormer....
Denial aint just a river in Egypt where well off Muslims take their cabana boys for trysts. The truth is that some Caliphes were known to write poetry about the pleasures of young men.
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