Street Dawah Toronto is a Facebook page of Muslim activists who spread the message of Islam at a portable Islamic booth called “Free Info on Islam” in downtown Toronto (Dundas Square).
On June 28, 2019 Street Dawah Toronto issued a statement on the Pride Parade and the LGBTQ community:
“Our team stood giving out books and having conversations in the midst of the Pride Parade this month; despite the fact that the LGBTQ lifestyle goes against what Islam permits, we are not forbidden from sharing the message of Islam.
“As Muslims we are often asked “What are your views on homosexuality?” When the response goes against social trends we are condemned for following a religion that is “oppressive” – one that forces people to “suppress their freedom to follow their desires”. Should Muslims then “suppress their freedom to follow their desires”, and hold back what they deem to be beautiful and beneficial Divine Guidance to be shared?
“When the LGTBQ community express their desires in a way that is fearless, loud, and proud, it is celebrated as liberating. The LGBTQ community believe that their choices are beautiful – to be shared and encouraged openly. We can agree to disagree, just as anyone has the ability to reason, and ultimately choose to agree or disagree with Islam.
“The Prophet Lut (a.s.) in the Qur’an stood firm in inviting his people to come to that which is good – he did not simply bend to the dictates of social norms, and he did not remain silent or behind closed doors – he did not shy away, nor was he fearful in standing for what he believed to be from God…that which is beneficial, beautiful, True, and liberating.
“Are we able to humble ourselves in the face of what we desire, and take ten steps back from a seemingly ugly blotch of paint on canvas to see the beauty and benefit of the bigger picture of God’s Divine Guidance for His Creation? There is the one who turns his back to God’s Guidance to sin in pride and arrogance. Then there are those who humble themselves and embrace the Truth of God’s Guidance while acknowledging their sin as a sin and a shortcoming on their part.
“Help one another in good and righteous works, and do not help one another in sin and aggression.” (Qur’an 5:2) “Speak good words to all people.” (Qur’an 2:83)”