Ali Darwich, a 33-year-old gay Muslim influencer with Palestinian and Lebanese roots, hosted an inclusive Ramadan Iftar in Berlin this week, calling for greater tolerance and acceptance across faiths and sexual orientations. The event, held at the home of friend Randa Weiser, brought together a diverse group of Muslims, Christians, Germans, immigrants, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Darwich, who goes by @alifragt on Instagram, has been using his platform to highlight the challenges faced by queer Muslims. In one video, he spoke about the loneliness many experience when shunned by their families during Ramadan. 'You deserve to break your fast surrounded by people who accept you — fully and without conditions,' he told his gay followers.
Attacks against LGBTQ+ people have risen sharply in Germany, with a 40% increase in violence across 12 federal states in 2024 compared to 2023, according to the Association of Counseling Centers for Victims of Right-Wing, Racist and Antisemitic Violence. Darwich noted that acceptance is difficult not only for Muslims but also for queer Christians and believers of other religions.
Weiser, a German-Palestinian influencer, said she received 'some hate' on Instagram for hosting the inclusive Iftar but that most followers agreed 'you can be Muslim and gay or lesbian.' The meal included freekeh soup, yellow rice with almonds and raisins, grilled chicken, and desserts.
Darwich came out to his mother six years ago; she initially struggled but they now have a good relationship. He credits his friends for becoming a 'chosen family' during that difficult time. 'From one day to the next, I was no longer invited to family celebrations,' he recalled.
Haidar Darwish, a Syrian belly dancer and artist who attended the Iftar, said hate crimes against women, Muslims, Jews, and LGBTQ+ people have increased. 'No matter how much the others will show us hate, we can show more love only if we are believing in ourselves,' he added.
