There are moments in life that feel like more than just a photograph. They feel like a blueprint for the future.

Recently, at Pride Geneva, I had the honor of standing alongside Leo from Queers Against Antisemitism (QgA). In my hand, I held the Pakistani Muslim rainbow flag; in his, the Jewish rainbow flag. In a world often defined by borders, conflict, and religious divides, this image captured something simple yet revolutionary: unity.

The Power of Queer Spaces

Being gay or queer is a universal human experience that transcends the lines drawn on a map. In queer spaces, we find a common language that allows us to bypass the political tensions of our homelands.

When a Pakistani Muslim and a Jewish person stand together under their respective rainbow flags, it proves that our identities are not mutually exclusive. We are proof that you can be proud of your heritage, your faith, and your sexuality all at once—and that these things can bring us together rather than tear us apart.

About the Organizations Leading the Way

To understand the significance of this moment, it’s important to know the work being done by the communities we represent:

• PridePakistan.org: This platform is dedicated to the visibility and support of the Pakistani LGBTQ+ community. It serves as a vital resource for those navigating the intersection of Pakistani culture and queer identity, fostering a sense of belonging for a community that is often silenced.
• Queers Against Antisemitism (qga.ch): QgA is a Swiss-based organization committed to fighting antisemitism within and outside the queer community. They work tirelessly to ensure that Jewish queer individuals can live safely and authentically, promoting education and solidarity across different backgrounds.

A Vision for Pakistan and Israel

This photo, which can also be found on the QgA website, is my personal hope for the future.

I dream of a day when the spirit of this image reflects the broader population. I hope for a future where antisemitism in Pakistan is wiped out, replaced by curiosity, respect, and shared humanity. I look forward to a time when Pakistan and Israel can find a path toward friendship—not just as political entities, but as people who recognize each other’s right to exist and thrive.

If two gay men from these backgrounds can hold their flags together in Geneva, why can’t our nations do the same?

The Path Forward

Change begins with visibility. By showing up as our authentic selves, we challenge the prejudices that have been passed down through generations. Whether we are in Geneva, Karachi, or Tel Aviv, the message remains the same: Love and identity are the bridges to peace.

We are not just individuals in a parade; we are the seeds of a more tolerant world.

Let’s Connect

What does peace look like to you? I believe it looks like the conversation between these two flags.