Big Gay Iftaar to ‘bring together’ London’s Muslim and LGBT communities for Ramadan

Pride in London is marking Ramadan as part of this year’s Pride festival.

The body, which organises the capital’s annual Pride events, today announced the schedule for the Pride in London Festival which leads up to the July 8 Pride march.

The festival includes more than 60 new and returning events throughout the city across the two week festival.

One of the new events is A Big Gay Iftaar, which Pride in London says will “bring together the Muslim and LGBT+ communities to open a fast together during Ramadan”.

The event will be held in St Andrew’s Church, Southwark, on Saturday June 24.

Pride in London told PinkNews: “It’s time to bring together the Muslim and LGBT+ communities to do something very important: open a fast together during Ramadan, otherwise known as ‘iftaar’.

“The intention is to get back to basics and talk to one another, learn about each others’ faiths, cultures and sexualities and spread some love that is so sorely needed in the world.

“Dates and food will be provided at Maghrib (sunset) and it promises to be a thought provoking and community building evening.

“The event is open to everyone, regardless of background or sexuality. All proceeds will be donated to Pride in London and Imaan.”

The event comes after Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, who is both a Muslim and a strong LGBT ally, made history by leading the Pride parade last year.

Speaking about the festival, Mr Khan said: “London’s LGBT+ community is one of the largest in the world, and I was proud to lead last year’s Pride march and to be Mayor of a city that doesn’t just tolerate diversity, but truly embraces and celebrates it.

“This year’s Pride in London programme reflects the full spectrum of the capital’s LGBT+ community and I urge all Londoners to immerse themselves in the festivities, proudly wave the rainbow flag and make this year’s Pride in London the biggest and most colourful yet.”

An LGBT iftaar took place last year after the Orlando massacre.

The official Pride in London festival opening takes place at Tate Britain, celebrating their major new exhibition Queer & Now.

Other events included in the festival include an LGBT-themed treasure hunt, historical tours that “celebrate some of the characters who’ve minced, lived and loved down Soho’s streets”, and the annual LGBT+ Picnic in the Park.

Peter Flynn from Pride in London said: “Pride in London is not only a celebration of the LGBT+ community, it’s a celebration of the city itself.

“London is one of the most diverse, welcoming and accepting cities in the world and we’re proud to be part of it, and we’re delighted to work with Visit London.

“Pride in London strives to be a beacon to the rest of the world, and hope people from across the U.K. and beyond will come to London this year and join the celebrations.”

Check out the Pride in London Festival calendar here

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