Content Note: In this episode you will encounter mention of adverse mental health, depression, suicidality, homophobia and Islamophobia. Whilst not discussed in detail, we acknowledge that these instances could be distressing for audiences, and ask that you take care if you choose to engage. We've put together some resources of support in our notes here. 

Mohammad Awad is a Queer, Arab, Muslim artist and mental health worker whose work traverses poetry, playwriting, advocacy and Queer-Muslim centred mental health support. To coincide with the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, he joined Darren and Sara for a Queer Muslim Ramadan special to honor the messiness and complexity this time can hold for queer Muslim communities - regardless of your understanding of faith and identity. They chatted about reframing faith and ritual, reclaiming pre-colonial queer ancestry, poetry as a life force and the legacy of queer Muslim communities creating spaces by and for each other. 

If some themes in this episode were challenging or distressing, here are some places that can offer free, anonymous and immediate support. 

• Qlife 1800 184 527 
• BeyondBlue 1300 22 4636
• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Safe Haven 02 9113 2981
• Islamophobia Register - Information for reporting and knowing your rights if you have experienced Islamophobia in so-called Australia

This episode was hosted by Darren Lesaguis and Sara Khan, with special guest Mohammad Awad. It was produced and edited by Shareeka Helaluddin. Cover image: a photo of Mohammad Awad courtesy of the artist. 

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