This is an interview and debate in Arabic on Alhurra News.
Appearing in this interview:
- Tariq Bin Aziz: Spokesperson for the Alwan organization, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in the Gulf region.
- Mohammad Refai Budai’j: Bahraini parliamentarian and proponent of legislation to criminalize LGBTQ+ advocacy and behavior.
- Raghda: Host of the program facilitating the discussion.
- Mohammad Al-Wuhaibi: Legal advisor from Saudi Arabia, representing the perspective of the Saudi government and its stance on LGBTQ+ issues.
- Nasser Mohammad: Executive Director of the Alwan organization, a Qatari-American physician and LGBTQ+ activist living in San Francisco.
Link to the full interview in Arabic:
Translation done by Dr. Nas Mohamed from Arabic to English. Here’s the literal English translation of the conversation:
Statements from the introduction segment:
I left, but many others have not…
If someone incites and encourages through social media, the law will prosecute them.
This, in my view, intensifies hate speech in society. Also, is it “Mr. Tariq” or “Ms. Tariq”? Personally, I am non-binary. I am neither a man nor a woman, and I am not accepted by society even before not being accepted by the system. I was subjected to housing discrimination, harassment, and prosecution.
Between the individual’s sovereignty over their body and society’s control over that same body lies the story.
Raghda:
Homosexuality in Arab societies, especially in the Gulf, remains a contentious human rights issue. The waves of conflict continue to rise with escalating measures against LGBTQ individuals. Even in death, disputes arise, such as in Kuwait over the washing of transgender individuals’ bodies, or Bahrain’s parliament, which not only criminalized homosexuality decades ago but recently increased the penalties. These actions do not stop at punishing LGBTQ individuals but also extend to those who defend them. Waves of hatred and incitement are escalating to unprecedented levels, prompting international human rights organizations, particularly those concerned with LGBTQ rights in the Gulf, to intensify calls for anti-discrimination and anti-hate laws based on sexual orientation and gender identity to protect LGBTQ and transgender individuals.
Tonight, we discuss LGBTQ rights and individual freedoms in the Gulf. With us is Bahraini MP Mohammad Refai Budai’j, one of the parliamentarians who proposed this law. Joining us from San Francisco is Tariq Bin Aziz, spokesperson for the Alwan organization advocating LGBTQ rights in Gulf countries.
Let me begin with you, Mr. Mohammad. Homosexuality has been criminalized in Bahrain since the 1970s. Why did you propose this law now, or why did you seek to update it?
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
First, thank you, Ms. Raghda, for hosting us. It is important to clarify the significance of this law that we proposed in parliament. We see the challenges worldwide, so preserving the integrity of society is critical. As parliamentarians, we believe it’s our duty to safeguard communities against ideological invasions. Today, people use terms like “homosexuality,” but we see this as sexual deviance that’s being polished and presented as something normal.
In the law, we’ve criminalized not just the act but also those who promote or justify it. We believe it’s vital to escalate penalties at this particular time to make the law a deterrent against such practices.
Raghda:
Let me turn to Mr. Tariq. You have condemned this law and called on the Bahraini government to reject it. Have your efforts been met with any receptiveness?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
First, thank you, Ms. Raghda, for having me. Indeed, we have denounced this unfortunate proposal because it treats LGBTQ individuals as if they are outsiders, as if they aren’t members of this society. They are sons and daughters of Bahrain, of Saudi Arabia, of all Gulf states, and of the world. These individuals should be approached from the perspective of needing protecting and understanding of their issues. They are not enemies; they are citizens of these nations. Among them are doctors and teachers, yet they cannot openly express their identities. This is why we called on the Bahraini government and parliament to reconsider this proposal. It violates basic human rights and fosters hatred and discrimination against a peaceful group whose only difference is their minority status. Unfortunately, we haven’t received any clear response from Bahrain.
Raghda:
Mr. Mohammad, why are these penalties being intensified in Bahrain for something that may simply be a matter of personal difference and expression?
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
The key point is that we are not talking about a disease or a congenital defect. We are talking about behaviors—acts performed by individuals, whether male or female, who incline toward the same sex and engage in deviant acts. This is what the law addresses. As for other aspects, such as medical issues or the need for treatment, these are separate matters.
Raghda:
But the law you mention doesn’t only punish those who commit the act. It also targets those who defend LGBTQ individuals. Isn’t this an escalation of hate speech in society?
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
We don’t interpret it that way. We see it as protecting our children. Today, we need to shield our children from being influenced by wrongful behaviors. If we wait until society adopts these practices and then blame ourselves later, it will be too late. Our duty as parliamentarians, members of civil society, and associations is to work collectively to address this problem.
Today, we see animated films, advertisements, and other materials targeting our children with these ideas. What we’re combating is not a disease but a dangerous ideology that directly impacts our children. This is why we are keen on tightening penalties to put a stop to these practices.
Raghda:
Mr. Tariq, your response noted that homosexuality is not an ideology but part of natural human diversity. How do you persuade others of this?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
Exactly. Homosexuality is a natural human trait, not an ideology to be promoted. LGBTQ individuals were once children, and many still are. They are a segment of the children Mr. Mohammad claims he wants to protect. Statements like his stigmatize children within the LGBTQ community and make them feel unsafe. Imagine if one of his relatives or neighbors were LGBTQ—seeing how society treats them with hate and discrimination would make them feel insecure in their own homes, even among their parents.
Labeling homosexuality as a “foreign ideology” or treating LGBTQ individuals as sick patients to be sent to clinics only worsens their mental and psychological struggles. It’s a natural human variation. Fighting against it won’t erase it, but the real threat we must confront is hatred and discrimination. These are cultural phenomena being reinforced and codified into laws. When he speaks of cartoons or shows portraying LGBTQ individuals, it’s about representation—these children see themselves reflected in these stories.
Raghda:
Mr. Mohammad, let me comment on this matter. What is your opinion on this? In 2022, I understand you were part of a political society that organized a counter-campaign to a major global campaign targeting this issue. Could you elaborate?
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
Yes, in 2022, I was a member of a political society, and we launched a counter-campaign. It was a large-scale campaign aimed at addressing this issue globally. We, as civil society organizations and political associations, discussed the matter from all angles, including medical and psychological aspects. We named the campaign “The Nature Campaign.” It was aimed at preserving the natural human order.
We visited various social councils, where specialists spoke about the matter. Our primary concern is the global trend—some leftist ideologies and movements seek to promote these ideas, undermine religion, and attack all beliefs and human values. This is not a simple matter or one of sickness; it’s a cultural invasion that threatens to erode our values and traditions.
Raghda:
So, the fear is of an ideological invasion. Could you clarify whether this law includes social media? For example, if someone expresses support on these platforms?
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
Yes, if someone incites or encourages these practices through social media, the law will also apply to them.
Raghda:
But this seems vague. Could you clarify?
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
We are still in the first phase. We proposed the law, and now we will refine it in discussions with the government. We mentioned that anyone who promotes or glorifies these practices will be penalized. Glorification could include creating videos or other forms of expression on social media. These actions will be criminalized. We will draft scenarios to ensure the law applies to all forms of incitement and promotion.
Raghda:
Tariq, while some advocate for removing penalties against the LGBTQ community, others are moving toward harsher measures. Why do you think this is happening?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
The primary reason is ignorance. What I’m hearing right now doesn’t reflect any understanding of gender diversity. Homosexuality is treated as an ideology, and gender transitioning is seen as deviant behavior. Meanwhile, they claim to uphold values. What values are being preserved here? Hatred and discrimination? Why is tolerance not the value we seek to uphold in society?
When we talk about “nature” campaigns, I remember being in Bahrain during that year. Seeing “Nature” slogans on the streets made me feel terrified. What does “nature” even mean? Every individual’s nature is unique. Imposing one person’s nature on everyone else, even on children, is destructive.
Even awareness-raising efforts will be criminalized under this law. If someone tries to educate or enlighten people about gender issues, it will be labeled as promotion. This kind of logic is astounding to me. It’s ignorance about gender diversity that drives such actions. Homosexuality is not a disease—it’s a natural variation.
Raghda:
Mr. Tariq, Mr. Mohammad mentioned the concept of nature and deviancy. How do you distinguish between what is natural and what is deviant?
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
This distinction depends on whether we’re discussing a congenital defect that requires treatment. Behavioral issues also need to be addressed. There are tools and specialists to guide individuals in addressing such behaviors. This is why we proposed the law, based on Islamic Sharia and the Bahraini constitution, which ensure that all our laws derive from Sharia.
Raghda:
You mentioned treatment. What type of treatment do you mean?
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
The treatment can be psychological or medical, depending on the individual’s needs. The challenge is significant, which is why guardians and individuals with certain tendencies should seek treatment. We don’t simply say, “Choose your gender.” Specialists must determine the appropriate course.
As I mentioned earlier, we criminalize actions and behaviors, not mere appearance or tendencies. Our focus is on criminalizing practices, not identities.
Raghda:
Tariq, Mr. Mohammad described homosexuality as something treatable, whether medically or psychologically. Is homosexuality a disease that can be treated?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
I have two points to make. First, if Islamic Sharia promotes hatred and discrimination against peaceful individuals, then we need to reexamine these rulings. Second, all credible medical associations worldwide, including the World Health Organization and the American Psychiatric Association, agree that homosexuality is not a disease.
Should we abandon expert opinions and rely on ignorance or cultural and religious preconceptions? Forcing treatment on LGBTQ individuals only exacerbates their mental health issues. On top of the discrimination and hatred they already face, we subject them to further harm under the guise of treatment.
Parents who should support their children end up harming them by sending them to clinics that operate on baseless interpretations rather than medical science. Medically, homosexuality isn’t a disease.
Raghda:
Mr. Mohammad, your law also calls for banning the recruitment of foreign workers suspected of homosexuality. Could you elaborate?
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
This has been a controversial point. The question is whether a person is encouraging deviance or merely appears inclined toward the same sex. We criminalize actions, not intentions. This aspect will be discussed in detail in the law’s provisions.
Regarding Islamic values, our religion is inherently tolerant and inclusive. I find it surprising when the guest claims otherwise. Islam is welcoming and encourages dialogue. However, these practices are unacceptable in our societies, and we will fight against them to protect our children and future generations.
Raghda:
But Western societies are not rejecting LGBTQ individuals. On the contrary, there are instances where people from Arab countries escape to these societies. Tariq being an example, what do you think of this?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
That claim is false. When I mentioned Islamic rulings earlier, it was because Mr. Mohammad used them as a justification for discrimination and hatred, turning these into laws. He needs to reassess these rulings or his understanding of them.
The idea that Western societies reject LGBTQ individuals is laughable. As I mentioned, people are fleeing from those societies. I left my country and those communities, even though I love my homeland. I had to seek refuge in Western societies, where I found protection, recognition, and efforts to combat discrimination and hatred based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
The claim that Western societies are rejecting these groups is untrue. If anything, we should learn from these societies how to value humanity and embrace diversity. We find LGBTQ individuals serving as ministers, doctors, and teachers.
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
If I may, I’d like to add something. The guest mentioned discrimination and hatred. In fact, Gulf societies welcome everyone and do not discriminate or harbor hatred against anyone. I’m surprised that he claims he fled abroad. What’s stopping you from returning to your country? Live in your homeland naturally.
We are discussing unacceptable practices, not identities.
Raghda:
But Tariq cannot live in his country or express himself freely there.
Mohammad Refai Budai’j:
Freedom exists in all countries. Freedom and respect are guaranteed as long as they don’t infringe on others’ rights.
Raghda:
Thank you, Mr. Mohammad. Moving on,
We brought the discussion about the LGBTQ community to social media, where we conducted a poll on Platform X. We asked: “Do you support Gulf laws concerning homosexuality?”
So far, 75% have responded “Yes,” while 25% have said “No,” opposing these laws that criminalize homosexuality.
Raghda:
Does the openness in Gulf countries push for a change in laws? For example, Saudi Arabia recently updated the FAQ section on its Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) website. In response to a question about whether LGBTQ individuals are welcome as visitors, the site stated: “We welcome everyone to visit Saudi Arabia. Visitors are not required to disclose such personal details.”
Joining us now from Riyadh is legal advisor Mohammad Al-Wehebi. Mr. Al-Wehebi, does this response indicate a relaxation of Saudi Arabia’s strict stance on LGBTQ matters?
Mohammad Al-Wehebi:
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, and peace and blessings upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and companions.
This response is the natural one from the Saudi government or any agency representing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our society welcomes everyone, provided they do not engage in actions within the Kingdom that are prohibited or criminalized under Islamic Sharia.
Men and women alike are welcome to Saudi Arabia as long as they abide by these rules.
Raghda:
Tariq, considering the openness Saudi Arabia has shown in recent years, do you anticipate any changes in laws regarding homosexuality?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
I doubt it. Unfortunately, this openness appears to be two-faced. Saudi Arabia presents one face to the outside world and another to its citizens.
For instance, when I was imprisoned in Saudi Arabia and prosecuted for advocating LGBTQ rights or allegedly promoting homosexuality, it was in 2021. This happened during the same period when such welcoming statements were being made. In reality, homosexuality remains criminalized. This is merely a facade for the outside world to appear inclusive.
Raghda:
Mr. Al-Wehebi, Tariq claims this is a facade and that Saudi Arabia is not genuinely welcoming to LGBTQ individuals. What is your response?
Mohammad Al-Wehebi:
To begin with, I’m not sure whether I should address Tariq as “Mr.” or “Ms.” since we are unclear about their identity.
Raghda:
Is this relevant to the conversation?
Mohammad Al-Wehebi:
It absolutely is, but addressing individuals must be specific. I used both terms because I do not know Tariq’s preferences. Naturally, I cannot address them inappropriately until they clarify their identity.
Regarding the claim that Saudi Arabia acts with two faces—one internally and one externally—that is incorrect. Saudi Arabia operates with transparency across all its sectors, adhering to one unified approach based on Islamic principles.
As for the claim that Islamic Sharia does not criminalize this act, that is untrue. Allah says in the Quran: “O mankind, We have created you from a male and a female.” There is no mention of any other category. Homosexuality is among the gravest sins prohibited by Islamic Sharia.
Raghda:
Tariq, would you like to respond to Mr. Al-Wehebi’s question about your pronouns?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
I am non-binary—I am neither male nor female. Whether he chooses to address me as “Mr.” or “Ms.” doesn’t matter to me. I stick to official documentation, which reflects the gender assigned at birth in correspondence.
Raghda:
Understood. Tariq, you were also imprisoned and sentenced to one year in Saudi Arabia. Could you explain the charges?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
The imprisonment was due to my Twitter account. Several issues were cited, including freedom of belief and expression, as well as advocating for LGBTQ rights. Many of my tweets were deemed criminal.
The authorities framed it as “promoting homosexuality” among other charges. This is how they treat citizens. I don’t understand how they can claim to welcome everyone while simultaneously discriminating against and oppressing their own people.
Raghda:
Mr. Al-Wehebi, do the laws in Saudi Arabia punish the act of homosexuality itself, or do they extend to behaviors that may imply it, such as clothing choices or defending LGBTQ rights online?
Mohammad Al-Wehebi:
Excellent question. In Saudi Arabia, the legislature criminalizes certain acts, as mentioned in the case earlier, through Platform X (formerly Twitter). Such actions are criminalized under the Cybercrime Law, which explicitly states that incitement to commit any act that is contrary to Sharia or the law is a punishable offense.
So, inciting or encouraging these acts is treated as though the person committed them. The law applies to anyone who promotes or attempts to normalize homosexuality, whether by beautifying its image or misleading the public into believing it is not prohibited by Sharia or criminalized.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries have appointed well-qualified individuals—intellectually, scientifically, and religiously—to issue fatwas (Islamic rulings) or interpret religious texts and jurisprudence. It is not up to individuals to interpret Quranic verses or jurisprudence to fit their personal agendas.
For example, some may take part of the Quranic verse “Do not approach prayer” without completing it, to claim prayer is unnecessary. Such selective interpretation distorts the actual meaning.
Raghda:
Tariq, what role does the Alwan organization play in advocating for LGBTQ rights inside and outside the Gulf region?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
Alwan is acutely aware of the immense persecution faced by LGBTQ individuals. I find it ironic that they speak of “incitement” when the actual incitement is directed against this community. This is done under the guise of protecting religious or cultural values, but it doesn’t justify violating basic human rights.
Whether these justifications stem from Sharia rulings, fatwas, or the opinions of religious figures in Saudi Arabia or elsewhere, they cannot legitimize the violation of human rights.
Everyone has the right to follow their beliefs and apply them to themselves. However, using these beliefs to incite hatred or discriminate against others is unacceptable. Alwan focuses on several principles, including raising awareness about gender and sexual diversity because there is significant ignorance surrounding these issues.
The organization also highlights humanitarian cases in need of assistance and has provided help to many individuals in this community.
Raghda:
Mr. Al-Wehebi, what does Saudi law say about homosexuality, and how do Gulf countries compare in their approach?
Mohammad Al-Wehebi:
Before addressing that, I’d like to clarify something Tariq mentioned about “incitement.” What we practice is awareness, not incitement. However, perhaps you perceive it as incitement because it conflicts with your beliefs or ideologies.
Secondly, Tariq mentioned that organizations like Alwan help individuals. I’d like to know: How do they help? Tariq earlier dismissed treatment or counseling as a solution. So, what exactly is the form of “help” provided? Do they pair men with other men or women with other women? If so, that isn’t help—it’s enabling the issue.
Regarding the laws, we have clear legislation that criminalizes such acts. For example, Saudi Arabia’s Anti-Harassment Law specifically increases penalties for harassment if it involves individuals of the same gender. This reflects the severity of the crime and the harm caused to personal dignity.
Raghda:
Is there only criminalization? Are there any attempts to rehabilitate or help LGBTQ individuals, considering they are still citizens of the state?
Mohammad Al-Wehebi:
Certainly, when the objective is to guide individuals back to their natural state as created by Allah, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries are ready to assist.
However, if “help” means integrating them into society or normalizing their practices, they are not welcome—not by the system and certainly not by society.
Our society, thankfully, is founded on Islamic Sharia, which clearly states Allah created humans as male and female, each with a specific role. These are Quranic principles, not matters of opinion or personal interpretation.
Raghda:
Do you think the recent openness in Gulf societies could lead to changes in laws? For example, some responses to our Instagram poll suggest openness is inevitable, while others argue religious and cultural beliefs will remain unchanged.
Tariq Bin Aziz:
I’ll address the question first. When individuals’ rights are treated as privileges, it reflects a serious societal issue. The idea that LGBTQ individuals are an external entity that society can choose to reject is fundamentally flawed.
They are part of the community—neighbors, relatives, and colleagues. Many suffer in silence due to fear of persecution. Society has a responsibility to alleviate their suffering, not as a favor but as their right.
Mohammad Al-Wehebi:
Thankfully, our society does not support this ideology. If it did, you wouldn’t have left Saudi Arabia. Your departure confirms that such behaviors are neither welcome nor accepted.
Raghda:
Mr. Al-Wehebi, you claim this ideology isn’t visible in Saudi society, but what about individuals like Tariq, who argue otherwise?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
That’s laughable. I left Saudi Arabia, but many others remain. I’ve never said they are welcomed there; quite the opposite. Discrimination and ignorance are rampant.
My point was that alleviating their suffering isn’t a privilege granted by society—it’s an obligation. These individuals are part of our families and communities. Opposing them based on ignorance or preconceived judgments is unjustifiable.
Raghda:
Was your decision to leave primarily driven by fear of arrest due to the laws, or was societal rejection also a factor?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
Both. I faced social ostracization due to my identity and was also subjected to imprisonment and prosecution. These combined factors forced me to seek refuge elsewhere.
When I arrived in the U.S., I was shocked by the difference. It felt like living in another era or on a different planet. They have progressed so much, while we are still debating basic human rights.
As a Saudi citizen, I had rights in my homeland. Those rights were denied by both the state and society.
Raghda:
Dr. Nasser, a Gulf Arab who is openly gay, fled his homeland to challenge societal norms.
Dr. Nasser:
My name is Dr. Nasser Mohamed, a Qatari-American physician living in San Francisco, California. I am the executive director of Alwan, an organization advocating for LGBTQ rights in the Gulf region.
My personal experience was extremely challenging. I was born and raised in Qatar, but I came to the U.S. to specialize in medicine. I am now a practicing general physician, and I own my private clinic in San Francisco. Unfortunately, I lost everything—my rights as a human being in my country, my family, and all my citizenship rights. Everything was taken from me due to baseless and false narratives.
These narratives were based on misconceptions and misinformation, perpetuated across generations. The violence we faced as a community was grounded in these fabrications, leading to systemic abuse against LGBTQ individuals.
I am a Gulf Arab with values that I have not entirely abandoned. However, I was forced to leave everything behind and rebuild my life in a completely different society. The cause behind all of this was these false narratives, which deeply hurt me and broke a part of my humanity.
The thing I truly wish for every human being is freedom—the ability to live without fear. Once I freed myself from fear, the first thing I felt was relief. But after the relief came sadness—I mourned everything I had lost. Then I felt anger, which I will not hide. I endured all these difficult experiences, and on top of that, there are demands for me to remain silent and stay in the shadows.
Why should I remain silent? These stories need to be spotlighted. I now understand I am not alone in this experience. Seeing the pain I went through and the barriers that caused it motivates me to work toward dismantling these obstacles.
Raghda:
Tariq, did you openly declare your sexual orientation while in Saudi Arabia, or was this only after leaving the country?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
Speaking about myself as an individual occurred only after I left. While in Saudi Arabia, I advocated for LGBTQ rights but avoided discussing my own sexual orientation or gender identity, whether as a sexual preference or gender expression.
However, I was prosecuted under vague and overly broad charges, such as “violating public order,” “disrupting societal values,” and “offending public morality.” These accusations are so ambiguous they could apply to virtually anything. Even if we examined Mr. Al-Wehebi’s personal belongings, I’m certain we would find items that could be classified under such subjective criteria.
Raghda:
Mr. Al-Wehebi, how can Gulf societies simultaneously embrace global openness while imposing restrictions that limit personal freedoms?
Mohammad Al-Wehebi:
The openness in Gulf societies, particularly Saudi Arabia, is happening in ways that align with and do not violate Islamic Sharia. There are foundational principles and guidelines we cannot overlook.
Any openness or progress must respect these foundations. Anything contrary to Sharia will not be accepted—neither now nor in the future—because we are an Islamic society that adheres to its religious and moral values.
Raghda:
Tariq, has your organization followed the case of the British citizen of Mexican descent in Qatar? His family claimed he was lured through a dating app for LGBTQ individuals. What do you know about this incident, and is the Gulf region safe for LGBTQ individuals?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
Alwan has closely followed this case, especially through our director, Dr. Nasser. According to the victim’s brother, the individual was indeed lured through a dating app for LGBTQ people, arrested, imprisoned, and subjected to inhumane treatment.
In my opinion, the Gulf is absolutely unsafe for LGBTQ individuals—whether residents or visitors. While tourists might face fewer risks compared to locals, the danger is still present. Citizens, in particular, are more vulnerable to severe discrimination, imprisonment, and harsh penalties.
I strongly advise against any LGBTQ individual visiting Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia and others, because the legal systems do not offer any protection for this community.
Raghda:
Tariq, one of the accusations against you is that you are promoting homosexuality in Gulf societies. How do you respond to this?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
This accusation is baseless because homosexuality is not something that can be “promoted.” What I advocate for is tolerance and granting rights to this community.
Homosexuality is not an ideology or belief system that can be marketed or spread. Let’s say someone is attracted to the opposite sex. There’s no force in the world—not me, not Alwan, nor anyone else—that can change that person’s orientation to same-sex attraction.
Raghda:
Tariq, how did your family and community react when you came out as gay?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
They cut ties with me. My family is part of a society that rejects LGBTQ individuals due to ignorance, preconceived judgments, and religious justifications.
Even the religious justifications themselves vary. For example, in the U.S., there’s a mosque in Chicago that welcomes LGBTQ individuals, allowing them to pray while displaying rainbow flags in its sanctuary.
The interpretation of Islam evolves and adapts with time. Many practices once considered forbidden, even in Saudi Arabia, have now become permissible, such as musical concerts.
We advocate for this evolution in understanding human rights and freedoms. My family, like many others, is simply a product of the society they belong to.
Raghda:
Mr. Al-Wehebi, wouldn’t advocating for LGBTQ rights also promote a broader culture of human rights within society?
Mohammad Al-Wehebi:
If these acts align with what society should address, then maybe. But when it comes to issues that are religiously prohibited and firmly resolved within Sharia, there’s no room for debate.
Take the case of our guest—his family rejected him. If his own family, which is an essential part of society, does not accept him, how can he expect the larger society to do so?
He has found a community that aligns with his identity, and he is free to live there. However, it is not obligatory for our society to change its values.
Raghda:
Tariq, Mr. Al-Wehebi said freedom ends when it infringes on the rights of others. What do you think?
Tariq Bin Aziz:
We hope for the application of that principle. This is exactly what we are advocating for—that society stops infringing on the freedoms of LGBTQ individuals.
If someone follows a certain religion or ideology and holds certain prohibitions, we ask them to apply these to themselves without imposing them on others. LGBTQ individuals are part of society—they’re not outsiders.
While I managed to leave and build a life elsewhere, thousands, if not more, remain trapped, enduring discrimination, persecution, and social rejection. Leaving is not an easy option, and it’s a fundamental right to live freely in one’s homeland.
Raghda:
We’ve reached the end of this episode. I thank our guests from San Francisco, Tariq Bin Aziz, spokesperson for Alwan, and from Riyadh, legal advisor Mohammad Al-Wehebi. Thank you for joining us.
Raghda:
Thank you, viewers, and goodbye.