Our Initiatives Over the Years
2021: Queer Shia Hangouts and Post Majlis Chill
In 2021, the Queer Shia Collective embarked on a journey to create safe spaces for our community to come together, share their stories, and find solace in their identities. The Queer Shia Hangouts were like warm family gatherings where individuals could unwind, express their concerns, and engage in conversations that had been held back for far too long. These hangouts embodied the spirit of camaraderie, as old and new friends found a space where they could discuss the challenges they've faced on their journeys.
The Post Majlis Chill events provided a space for intimate discussions about intersectionality and the unique experiences of being both Queer and Shia. These gatherings fostered a safe environment where Queer Shia individuals could openly talk about their personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs. The emphasis was on listening and understanding, rather than having anyone dictate what someone else should feel or experience.
2022: Virtual Queer Shia Panel and Imam Hasan Event
Building on the success of the previous year, 2022 brought forth new opportunities for dialogue and education. The Imam Hasan (as) event marked a meaningful celebration of the birth of Imam Hasan (as), while also serving as a platform to discuss the rich traditions of Shia Muslims during this occasion. This event allowed our community to come together in remembrance, solidarity, and shared understanding.
The Queer Shia Panel was a pioneering endeavor that aimed to enlighten the broader public, as well as our allies, about the struggles and triumphs of Queer Shia Muslims. It aimed to convey the importance of spaces that embrace and respect the uniqueness of Queer Shia individuals, without overshadowing the broader fight against Islamophobia.
2023: Embracing Community, Advocacy, and Solidarity
In 2023, the Queer Shia Collective dedicated its efforts to strengthening the bonds within the community and working collaboratively with other queer Muslim organizations. Our partnership with organizations like in the Reclaiming Ramadan 2023 event facilitated impactful gatherings like the Open Space for Grief, which offered a safe haven for discussing our experiences, challenges, and aspirations.
Our commitment to advocacy within the queer Muslim community led us to collaborate with notable institutions like Masjid Fatemah, the first hybrid Shia mosque, as well as Muslim Alliance for Sexual and Gender Diversity [MASGD], Masjid Al-Rabia, Queer Crescent, and El Tawhid Unity Mosque. These collaborations culminated in the establishment of the Queer Muslim Solidarity Network, uniting various queer Muslim organizations in the pursuit of collective empowerment.
In 2023, we proudly held an event to honor Imam Zayn Al Abidin (AS) called Embracing Radiant Resilience: A Queer Shia Gathering to Celebrate Imam Zayn Al Abidin's Life and Joy and had plans for our first scheduled in-person event in New York, which, due to unforeseen circumstances, transitioned into a virtual gathering.
We are particularly proud of our efforts in mutual aid, which enabled four Queer Shia individuals to relocate to safer countries. As of now, two of these individuals have received refugee status and are on the path to finding a secure and welcoming final destination.