In the Iranian Islamic Penal Code homosexuality is illegal and punishable by death. Torture in the form of whipping is also used to punish homosexuals. Ironically, the law provides for a choice of execution — hanging, stoning, being halved by a sword or dropped from a high place — but a judge may also decide which form of execution is employed. Punishment may occur if two men or two women are discovered lying under one cover or even kissing “with lust”.

This was written in IRQO.net, the website of the Iranian Queer Organization. If it wasn’t for the Internet, perhaps nobody would know they even exist, what with the iron clad rule against homosexuality in their country. I’ve always found it amusing that some people in Iran insist that homosexuality doesn’t exist inside their borders. They should definitely go out more.

But this news isn’t amusing. According to The Independent of UK, Pegah, a 40-year-old lesbian, fled Iran and went to Britain “after her girlfriend was arrested and sentenced to death faces being forcibly returned after losing the latest round in her battle to be granted asylum.” She’s now facing deportation as the British courts seem less than eager to grant her that asylum. Then it dawned on me: OIL. Who said only four-letter words could be dirty?

There’s still a glimmer of hope though as good people are trying to find other legal means for her to stay in the UK. Here’s my two cents: I wish she went to Canada instead. My perception of Britain has just taken a blow. I hope it can redeem itself.

~o~

Since I became immersed in Islam filming a documentary on Muslim women years ago, I’ve often wondered if there are lesbian Muslims. I was sure there must be, but where? Recently, I found this documentary about the world of underground gays and lesbians in Iran. It’s easy to see why these people fall under the radar.

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3: