With the LGBTQ community becoming increasingly accepted and celebrated across the UK, there are several events rejoicing the community. Farrah ‘Rainfly’ is part of a group of friends that organises LGTBQ events in her spare time. On February 23rd they hosted a bike ride for lesbian, bisexual, queer and non-binary women. Farrah says: “It’s very gratifying to do something for a community which is often looked down upon or dismissed for being different.”

 

London-based organisations such as Wotever World and The Outside Project work on making a difference to the LGBTQ community across the UK. According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS), 1 in 50 people identify themselves as gay, lesbian or bisexual in the UK, with London holding the largest proportion of the population.

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Despite this however, Shazia Ahmed, who has been shunned by the Islamic community for her sexuality, says “dating and networking as a Muslim lesbian is harder than ever.” When it comes to meeting those of a similar background, Shazia says it is difficult: “When I was younger, we would go clubbing and exchange numbers. Now though, everything has moved online.” Despite there being apps such as Grindr, Tindr and Queer Dating, many members of the LGBTQ community struggle to find their perfect match.

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Rising rents and the increasing popularity of dating apps has resulted in the closure of some of London’s most well known gay bars. However, London still holds the title as the capital of the LGBTQ community in Europe. It is a place of acceptance and has a diverse scene that adapts in ambience according to location. Areas such as Soho and Shoreditch embrace a unique and lively nightlife that attracts a younger crowd, whereas South London pubs and bars invites a more laidback and mature clientele. The capital continues to embrace the community, as more non-profit organisations gather to make London a more accepting place of diversity.

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Read about being LGBTQ and muslim in our printed magazine.