The CALD Sexual Health Action Group provided funding in 2023 to support a scoping literature review examining the health and wellbeing of Queer Muslim communities. The funding was intended to give voice to researchers with lived experience to take part in the research process, with most authors identifying as queer, Muslim or both.  This research makes an important contribution to the growing evidence base focused on the intersection of culturally and linguistically diverse identities, sexuality, gender, and faith. 

The review analysed existing literature through the 4M framework (Mega, Macro, Meso, and Micro levels) to better understand how structural, social, and individual factors influence health outcomes. By applying this approach, the research highlights the complexity of navigating multiple, intersecting marginalised identities and the ways these layered experiences shape health and wellbeing. 

Findings from the review demonstrate that persistent assumptions about the incompatibility of queerness and Islam continue to drive stigma, discrimination, and minority stress. These pressures can have a significant negative impact on health outcomes for Queer Muslims. Structural barriers also play a key role, including limited funding for targeted initiatives, healthcare systems that operate within homonormative frameworks, and cultural expectations within healthcare environments that can feel exclusionary or unsafe. 

Despite these challenges, the review also identifies important sources of resilience and support. Strong familial, peer, and community connections can play a vital protective role, particularly when they are affirming of both identity and faith. Inclusive and supportive religious spaces further contribute to improved wellbeing, while access to digital platforms provides opportunities for connection, information sharing, and community building that may not otherwise be available. 

The research underscores the importance of moving towards culturally competent, strength-based models of care that recognise and build on the resilience within Queer Muslim communities. It also highlights the need for continued research to better understand the diverse experiences of Queer Muslims across different cultural, geographic, and social contexts. 

The results of the review were presented to CALD Sexual Health Action Group and have since continued to inform the ongoing work of the action group, as well as the professional practice of its individual members.  

To access the research please click below  

Analysing the Health of Queer Muslims Through the 4M Framework: A Scoping Literature Review | Sexuality & Culture | Springer Nature Link 

Acknowledgement  

The CALD Sexual health action group would also like to thank the authors Shiffa Samad, Siobhan Irving, Sujith Kumar Prankumar, Horas Wong, Muhammad Naveed Noor & Bernard Saliba on their contributions to this research  

A Note on research independence  

While CALD SHAG provided funding to support this research, the group did not participate in defining the study design, search strategy, analysis, or manuscript preparation. This distinction ensures the independence and integrity of the research and its findings.