LGBT Muslims concerned that ban on scholar could contribute to Islamophobia
Imaan, the LGBT Muslim support group, joins those in the Muslim community who
are concerned at the Home Office decision to ban Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi. The
Home Office is reported to have refused a visa for medical treatment on the
grounds that: "the UK will not tolerate the presence of those who seek to
justify any acts of terrorist violence or express views that could foster
inter-community violence."
This flies in the face of advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office which
states that acting "against Qaradawi would alienate significant and influential
members of the global Muslim community....(and) give grist to Al-Qaeda
propaganda of a western vendetta against Muslims..."
This advice, given in 2005 by it's Islamic Affairs Advisor, clearly outlines
that Qaradawi has made authoritative statements condemning the London bombings,
the 9-11 attacks and other acts of terrorism, which he has stated are against
the beliefs of Islam. (see editors notes below for link)
Regarding his views on homosexuality, Imaan makes clear its disagreements with
all faiths that are regressive on this issue.
However, we believe that all religious leaders should be treated equally and
just as we would not support a ban on the Pope, so we are concerned that by
banning Qaradawi, the Home Office is contributing to a climate of Islamophobia,
which impacts on all Muslims, including our LGBT members.
Ubaid-ur Rehman, Secretary of Imaan said:
"Banning Dr Qaradawi will do nothing to further good relations between Muslim
and non-Muslim communities, in fact it will only harm relations, as many Muslims
will see this ban as double standards.
We disagree with his views on homosexuality, but believe it is necessary to
engage with those who have different opinions in order to effect change. We also
believe the ban is counter- productive and politically motivated, as it runs
contrary to advice given by the FCO.
Members of Imaan already face Islamophobia within the LGBT community and beyond
as a result of increased stigmatisation of Muslims in the press and by some
politicians. Following the 11 September and 7 July attacks we have seen
increased stigmatisation of our members.
Banning a high profile, widely regarded cleric like Dr Qaradawi can only
contribute to the idea that Muslims are synonymous with extremism.
The Home Office would do well to consider the views of the plurality of the
Muslim community on this issue, which is in keeping with the FCO advice, and not
politicians whose agenda is motivated by a bias regarding the conflict in the
Middle East, if it is to fully engage the hearts and minds of the Muslim
community."
For interviews and further information contact Imaan on : 07725 463 816 or email
info@imaan.org.uk
1. Imaan is the largest European support group for Muslim LGBT (Lesbian, Gay,
Bi-sexual & Trans-gendered) people. For more information visit
www.imaan.org.uk
2. The full advice from Mockbul Ali, Islamic Affairs Advisor to the Foreign and
Commonwealth office can be found here
http://image.guardian.co.uk/sys-files/Observer/documents/2005/09/04/Document1.pdf
3. David Cameron's call to ban Al-Qaradawi is inconsistent with his views when
he was an advisor to the Home Office in 1993, when Al-Qaradawi was granted
permission to enter the country. See: "Cameron call for ban backfires"
http://politics.guardian.co.uk/conservatives/story/0,,2250438,00.html