Fashion designer Maria B’s recent assertion has stirred up discussion that 80% of men in Pakistan’s fashion realm identify as LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, or others).
Maria B discussed her opinions on the fashion industry and the reasons behind her vocalization of this issue in a podcast interview.
She said that she was annoyed by people who said that Islam accepts all sexual orientations, pointing out that the Quran makes 27 references to the country of Lut.
Maria B stated that it is unacceptable to write off this subject as little or inconsequential.
Notably, Maria B stated that up until they started openly asserting Islamic acceptance she had kept quiet about LGBTQ people working in the fashion industry. Her estimate of the percentage of males in the sector who identify as LGBTQ is 80%, which may surprise a lot of people.
While some commend Maria B for her courage in addressing a delicate matter, others question her methodology or challenge the veracity of her assertions. The discourse underscores the nuanced terrain of discussing gender identity and sexual orientation within Pakistan’s cultural milieu.
