Islamophobia and Homophobia

“Islamophobia and Homophobia” is a colorful 12-inch by 12-inch diamond shaped canvas wrapped in a rainbow pride flag. On top of a geometric spiral of gradients, I painted stones of various shapes and sizes each engraved with the symbol of Islam, the moon and star, to represent the common form of punishment for homosexuality in several Islamic countries. Framing the diamond is a twisted pride flag nailed to the canvas with brads. I was born in the majority Muslim nation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Growing up in a post 9/11 southern state, I experienced islamophobia and anti-muslim sentiments from news, propaganda, and the people around me. As a teen, I rejected the religion because of the hate I felt from others and because of the homophobia I felt from within the Muslim community. I did not want to be Muslim if it meant I was going to be viewed as a terror and if my internal identity was going to send me to hell. I do not identify as Muslim anymore, however my heritage reflects it and some of my thought processes come from the religion. I embrace Islam as a guiding principal for many and believe there is good within it even if I do not follow it. Being gay created a conflicting dynamic with being Muslim that pushed and pulled two parts of my identity in different directions. I created this painting to showcase and bring together both aspects of who I am into one piece. I wanted to embrace my queer identity and my Muslim identity as they both play a big part in who I am today.