Asifa Lahore: The Muslim Drag Queen and LGBTQ+ Activist Leading the Way

Asifa Lahore is a British Muslim drag queen and LGBTQ+ rights activist who has made a significant impact on the UK's LGBTQ+ scene. Born in Pakistan and raised in London, Lahore began performing as a drag queen in 2009, becoming the first openly Muslim drag queen in the UK.

‍
In addition to her work as a performer, Lahore is also an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. She has worked to raise awareness about the challenges and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ Muslims, and has encouraged acceptance and inclusivity within these communities.

‍
Lahore's activism has not gone unrecognized - she was featured in Channel 4's groundbreaking documentary "Muslim Drag Queens" in 2015, which brought attention to the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ Muslims.

Lahore is also passionate about disability rights. She has worked to raise awareness about the challenges and discrimination faced by disabled individuals and has encouraged acceptance and inclusivity within these communities.

Asifa's trailblazing work as a Muslim drag queen and LGBTQ+ rights activist has made her a role model for many within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community. She continues to inspire and empower others through her performances, activism, and dedication to raising awareness about important issues.

Her impassioned activism on intersectionality, race, sexual orientation, gender, disability, and religion has earned her numerous speaking engagements at prestigious institutions such as the Lost Lectures, Channel 4 Diversity Festival, Women of the World Festival, the British Library, and the Oxford Union.

Overall, Lahore's work as a Muslim drag queen and LGBTQ+ rights activist has been instrumental in promoting understanding and acceptance within the queer community and beyond. She continues to use her platform to bring attention to important issues and to give a voice to those who may not have one.

Images courtesy of the artist