In this powerful episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Ali Najjar, Pride Award winner, proud gay Muslim man, and fierce advocate for hope, to explore a life marked by resilience, reinvention, and radical authenticity.
Ali opens up about growing up gay in a Muslim household, surviving relentless bullying at school, facing trauma in the workplace, and living two lives before finally embracing his truth. He reflects on the journey to self-acceptance, the heartbreak of losing his father, and the years-long rift with his mother, until their relationship was joyfully restored at his wedding to his husband, Adam.
They also unpack the beauty and complexity of intersectional identity, the need for inclusive queer representation in media and faith spaces, and the lasting impact of being seen and celebrated. Plus, Ali shares the moment he realized he had to speak up, how he turned pain into power, and why he’s never looking back.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about queer liberation, cultural identity, and the lifelong process of healing, belonging, and living out loud.
Chapters:
00:00 Understanding LGBTQ+ Identity Through Childhood Experiences
04:09 The Journey to Authenticity and Self-Acceptance
18:42 Navigating Intersectionality as a Queer Muslim
21:19 Growing Up in the 80s: Challenges and Bullying
26:01 Workplace Challenges and Sexual Assault Experiences
33:19 The Importance of Safe Spaces in the LGBTQ Community
38:32 Celebrating Love: Marriage and Acceptance
47:43 Cultural Icons and Their Influence
Follow Ben Cicchetti:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchetti
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti
