is the commonly-used Arabic word for lesbianism. It literally means "crushing," and has always had negative connotations attached to it. We have decided to reclaim it as a positive word and have named our monthly zine (mini-magazine) souhaq, as a tribute to our beautiful and complex Arabic language.

souhaq comes out of her closet once every month to hang out with you. She is provocative, strong-willed, and loves company. She contains articles, opinions, and creative work contributed by Lebanese lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer women. Download her by clicking the link on the right.

To receive her in your inbox every month, send your email address to nadine@helem.net with the subject line: subscribe to souhaq. All emails are treated confidentially. souhaq can keep a secret.

To contribute and submit your own work to Souhaq, also send an email to nadine@helem.net. We accept your writings, ramblings, artwork, thoughts, and comments. We accept your every form of expression. We apologize for not normally accepting material from non-LBTQ women, except in situations when the material directly relates to us and is too darn good to turn down.