How I Managed LGBTQ Conversations with My Kids: My Journey
How to discuss with your kids why LGBTQ is Haram
In our ever-changing world, Muslims in the West are making their mark and standing up for what they believe in. It's a rollercoaster of emotions seeing parents across the US and Canada unite over their kids’ education about LGBTQ lifestyles.
As a Muslim parent, I've felt this wave of passion firsthand. We’re out here, pouring our hearts into organizing and speaking up, our voices resonating deeply across social media, reminding everyone of the power of community, connection, and caring.
Tackling the Tough Conversations
Every generation has its unique challenges, and for us Muslim parents in North America, LGBTQ topics can feel like walking a tightrope. We're blending traditional Islamic beliefs with the dynamics of modern Western society, and it’s crucial to tackle these subjects with knowledge and compassion.
What Is LGBTQ?
Let's break it down a bit:
Lesbian: Stemming from the island of Lesbos, linked to a romantic relationship between two women in ancient Greek history.
Gay: Refers to men attracted to other men.
Bisexual/Pansexual: Attracted to individuals of both genders.
Transgender: A separate category related to gender identity, not sexual orientation.
The Reality of LGBTQ
These identities, like lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender, are human constructs related to psychology rather than being innate. It’s like how panic attacks have causes and aren’t just present at birth. Being gay or lesbian is a choice, not a predestined condition.
Managing emotions and behaviours are possible, and those who stay true to their beliefs may find peace and reward in this life and the hereafter. So, understand that LGBTQ isn’t a natural phenomenon. It’s a thought pattern that needs addressing, not acceptance.
The Impact on Our Kids
The effects of LGBTQ issues on young Muslims in North America can be pretty rough, affecting their mental and emotional well-being in multiple ways.
Emotional Conflict: Torn between religious beliefs and societal acceptance, causing turmoil.
Generational Gaps: Traditional values clash with progressive views.
Identity Struggles: Some young Muslims might grapple with their sexual or gender identities.
Social Stigma: Potential isolation and mental health impacts due to societal pressures.
The Challenge for Muslim Parents
Muslim parents, like any other, face challenges related to LGBTQ issues. It's a delicate matter in Islam, and we often find ourselves in tricky situations, especially as LGBTQ acceptance grows. We want to teach our kids the Islamic perspective while fostering understanding and respect.
My Approach to LGBTQ Conversations
Setting the Scene
Choose a comfy spot, free of distractions, ensuring your kid feels safe and heard.
Using Authentic Islamic Sources
Rely on credible religious sources. Seek guidance from respected scholars and texts.
Balancing Beliefs and Modern Realities
Uphold Islamic teachings while recognizing the world our kids are growing up in. Teach them to respect all individuals, regardless of differences.
Sharing the Story of Prophet Lot
The story of Prophet Lot (Lut in Arabic) is a crucial lesson. It involves the people of Sodom and Gomorrah, who engaged in immoral behaviour, including homosexuality. Despite Prophet Lot’s guidance, they continued their sinful ways. Allah punished them by destroying their cities. This story is a reminder of the consequences of LGBTQ behaviour and its prohibition in Islam.
Quranic Verse on LGBTQ
Surah Al-A’raf (7:80-84) highlights the immorality of homosexual behaviour and the punishment faced by the people of Lot.
Hadith on LGBTQ
Ibn ‘Abbas narrated: “The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: ‘Whoever you find doing the action of the people of Lot, execute the one who does it and the one to whom it is done.’” (Sunan Abu Dawood)
Abdullah ibn Abbas narrated: “The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: ‘Cursed is the one who does the action of the people of Lot.'” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
Building a Future of Understanding
Yes, these conversations are tough, but they’re necessary. While this topic might be new to us, it's not new for our kids. Our job is to nurture their strong Islamic beliefs and support their mental and emotional growth. Teach them that being different in their beliefs makes them unique. LGBTQ is a big no and haram in Islam, and that's what we need to pass on to our children. 🌟