BERLIN (AP) — Ali Darwich, a gay Muslim influencer in Berlin, picks up a date from his plate, takes a sip of water, and addresses the 15 friends sitting around the table and breaking the Ramadan fast with him.
The 33-year-old German with Palestinian and Lebanese roots — who goes by @alifragt or “Ali asks” on Instagram — has a quickly growing following on Instagram, where he draws attention to the difficulties of living as a young, queer Muslim and calls for more tolerance and inclusiveness.
“Tonight we want to send a message that no matter where a person comes from, no matter who that person loves, no matter how queer that person is, they cannot be too queer … because they are exactly as they should be,” Darwich says, smiling at the diverse group of Muslims and Christians, Germans and immigrants, gay and straight people sharing this meal with him as the sun sets over Berlin.
I’m not religious or even gay but it’s great to hear stories of people who actually follow some of the Bible’s teachings. Beyond the stone them and all I mean. If only all people were accepting as this person. Sort of like the intended message of certain texts.
It’s nice to read of people think similarly. Makes me feel more hopeful in these times. We all live on this rock we call home and it’d be awesome if we learned to live together regardless of conflicting ideals when they don’t impact others.
Well perhaps one day…