This article highlights the harmful and dangerous views espoused at a conference by Parents United, a Muslim parent action group that campaigns against inclusive relationships and sex education (RSE) in British schools. The conference featured speakers who promoted the idea that being gay is a sinful behavior that can and must be repented through Islamic teachings.
Attendees were also told that same-sex relationship tendencies stem from a lack of father figure or masculine role model, and that man-made terms like ‘sexual orientation, gay, lesbian’ are fully-loaded terms and not real.
It is deeply saddening that in most parts of the Islamic world, laws mandating gays be jailed or killed are still in place. It is just as alarming to see individuals and Islamic groups in the west promoting harmful and homophobic views under the guise of religion and parental concerns.
The idea that homosexuality is a sin that can be cured through repentance is not only outdated but also harmful, and can lead to discrimination and violence against members of the LGBT community. The promotion of so-called “gay conversion therapy” is not only unethical but also unsupported by scientific evidence.
It is also alarming to see the promotion of the idea that same-sex relationship tendencies stem from a lack of a father figure or a lack of masculine role models. This is not only untrue but also harmful, as it can lead to the alienation and mistreatment of children who do not conform to traditional gender roles.
It is important that all children receive age-appropriate and inclusive sex and relationships education, regardless of their religious beliefs or the beliefs of their parents. The teaching of accurate science and acceptance of all people regardless of sexual orientation should never be compromised. It is crucial to stand up against homophobia and discrimination, regardless of the religion of the person promoting bigotry.
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Questions for discussion:
- Should political and religious extremist groups be given a platform to express their views at public events? What are the potential consequences of allowing them to do so?
- What actions can be taken to support LGBT Muslims who may face discrimination or threats because of their sexual orientation or gender identity?
- Do you think that counter-extremism initiatives like Prevent are effective in preventing radicalization? What could be done to improve them?