In a recent incident in Beirut, Lebanon, a drag show hosted by renowned Lebanese drag artists Latiza Bombe and Emma Gration was abruptly halted due to a confrontation with an outraged crowd of conservative Christians. The event, held in a bar recognized as a haven for the LGBT community, was marred by the interruption. The two performers, donned in elaborate outfits, ended the show prematurely after being alerted to the approach of angered men towards the venue.
Gration expressed, “We are here, we exist, and no one will silence us. However, sometimes to keep doing what we’re doing we have to do it smartly. Unfortunately we have to cut the show short.” The situation escalated as the group of men gathered outside the venue, expressing their strong disapproval of the event. After seeking refuge for about 40 minutes, the performers and attendees altered their appearances to blend in with the audience in case of an intrusion.
The incident, captured in online footage, involved men identifying themselves as “the Soldiers of God,” an anti-LGBT Christian movement in Lebanon. This occurrence reflects a growing trend of hate speech against Lebanon’s LGBT community, including sentiments from various conservative religious groups. Even Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, leader of the Hezbollah Shi’ite armed group, has voiced his concerns over homosexuality, viewing it as a perceived threat that should be confronted.
Lebanon, once recognized as a regional safe haven for the LGBT community, has been experiencing a rise in tension surrounding their rights. Despite hosting the first gay pride week in an Arab country in 2017, the safety and security of the LGBT community are now under threat. Amnesty International has raised alarms about the deteriorating state of LGBTI rights in Lebanon, urging the government to ensure protection for all individuals, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.