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This first study of its kind into the lives of British gay, lesbian and bisexual Muslims, primarily of Asian descent, gives unique insight into the religious and social pressures on their lives. Most of those questioned by researchers from Nottingham Trent University were young, highly educated, in full-time employment and living in Greater London. 

Key findings

Islam and homosexuality

• The vast majority acknowledged that non-heterosexuality is strictly censured in Islamic religious texts. However, only a very small minority is well-informed about the specific theological and religious arguments. 
• 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. 
• 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 of western society.
• To express their sexuality was perceived by their community as not merely to defile their own moral character but the religious and cultural purity of the entire community.
• 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'. 
• 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.    

Family and cultural pressures

• How those questioned managed their identities and lifestyles was very much influenced and shaped by their religious and cultural background, family and friends. 
• Religious and cultural traits affect significantly their lives as non-heterosexuals, particularly the expectation and pressure to get married and concern about family honour. 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.   

Wider non-heterosexual community

• The wider non-heterosexual community is predominantly white, secular and male-oriented, 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 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.    

Help groups

• 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. Current efforts to provide support groups are embryonic and in great need of encouragement.   

About the study

The research, led by Dr Andrew K. T. Yip, senior lecturer at the Division of Politics & Sociology, Nottingham Trent University, involved 20 women and 22 men, of whom 64 per cent were under the age of 30.

Key words

Muslim, non-heterosexual, gay, lesbian, bisexual

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