Amar Razali

I have a lengthly discussion with my friend AbdulRahman Chao (he doesn't want me to call him 'Imam'. That's totally fine, man) about the issue of homosexuality in Islam.

OK. So here's the thing. Today, A Jihad for Love documentary will be shown to the VU community as part of the VU Pride Week. First of all, let me make it clear. I don't really care about these homosexuality, gay, lesbian issues on campus, but when they try to relate and tie it with Islam, wow, wow, stop, now I need to care about it.

Read the statement below that I took from The Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex Life (LGBTQI) at Vanderbilt University.

"A Jihad for Love is presented by Community Vanderbilt, the Office of LGBTQI Life, and Vanderbilt Lambda. In a time when Islam is under tremendous attack from within and without, "A Jihad for Love" is a daring documentary that explores the complex global intersections between Islam and homosexuality. Discussion following the film will be led by Nita Farahany, Assistant Professor of Law and Philosophy; Richard McGregor, Assistant Professor of Religious Studies specializing in Islam; and C. Melissa Snarr, Assistant Professor of Ethics and Society in the Divinity School. For more information about the film, visit http://www.ajihadforlove.com."

Why they want to show this controversial documentary? Clearly, Islam does not promote this homosexuality, gay, lesbian, etc. as the way of life, and Islam encourage the Muslims to get marry in natural way. I also want to encourage my fellow Muslims on campus to not react angrily and emotionally. Be calm and act wisely. We want to respond in the best manner as possible. Educate the people who do not know about Islam. This is our opportunity to spread the message of Islam.

I cannot say much for now because I have not see the documentary itself. So, I am planning to go to that event and listen to the discussion. I knew Prof. McGregor before (he thought one class for Introduction to Islam class with Olive Tree Education 2 years ago) and I believe he can say what is the stand of Islam in this issue.

Amar Razali