I am a proud Palestinian Muslim LGBTQ+ activist and poet dedicated to equality and social justice. I live in Berkeley, California, a city whose rich history of progressive movements and human rights activism has deeply shaped my identity and work.
My Journey
Born and raised in Jordan in a diverse Muslim community, I have been an advocate for change since a young age. I graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a degree in Gender and Women’s Studies, which gave me the academic foundation to amplify my activism. During my time at UC Berkeley, I served as president of the Muslim Queer Alliance Resource Center (MQARC), organizing workshops and events to uplift Muslim LGBTQ+ students and create safe spaces for dialogue and support.
Activism and Advocacy
Beyond the university, I co-founded the Muslim LGBTQ+ Action Coalition (MLAC), a grassroots organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and inclusion of Muslim LGBTQ+ individuals. Under my leadership, MLAC has launched campaigns to pass non-discrimination ordinances, promote inclusive education in schools, and provide resources for youth and seniors in our community. I also collaborate with organizations working on racial justice, immigrant rights, gender equality, and Palestinian liberation, recognizing the interconnectedness of our struggles.
Art, Words, and Expression
As a poet, writer, and graphic artist, I channel my passion for justice through creative expression. My work explores themes of identity, resilience, spirituality, and liberation. Whether through my poetry or my essays, I aim to inspire reflection and action, sharing my journey and vision for a more equitable world.
Recognition and Gratitude
I’ve been honored to receive awards like the Berkeley Human Rights Award and the UN LGBTQ+ Leadership Award. These acknowledgments remind me that the work we do together as a community has a real and lasting impact.
Life Beyond Activism
When I’m not organizing or creating, I find peace in nature, reading the Quran, and immersing myself in Berkeley’s vibrant art and music scenes. Mindfulness and self-care are central to my life; I believe we must nourish our souls to sustain our commitment to justice.
Looking Ahead
As I look to the future, my goal is to expand my activism on a national level, advocating for comprehensive protections for Muslim LGBTQ+ individuals and building coalitions that empower marginalized communities. I remain devoted to uplifting the next generation of activists and fostering a world where love, respect, and justice guide us all.
Through my poetry, I strive to tell stories that reflect the complexity of my identity and the boundless hope I hold for a better tomorrow.