Muhsin Hendricks, renowned as the first openly gay imam, was tragically shot in a targeted attack in South Africa. His death, occurring shortly after officiating a lesbian wedding, has prompted an outpouring of grief and condemnation from the LGBTQ+ community, who demand a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his murder.
Prominent LGBTQ+ Advocate Muhsin Hendricks Killed in Targeted Attack in South Africa
Prominent LGBTQ+ Advocate Muhsin Hendricks Killed in Targeted Attack in South Africa
The world's first openly gay imam, Muhsin Hendricks, was shot dead in South Africa, igniting global outrage and calls for justice.
In a tragic incident that has rocked the LGBTQ+ community worldwide, Muhsin Hendricks, recognized as the world's first openly gay imam, was fatally shot in South Africa over the weekend. The 57-year-old cleric, who led a mosque in Cape Town dedicated to providing a sanctuary for marginalized Muslims, was ambushed while traveling near Gqeberha. Witnesses reported two masked gunmen exiting a vehicle and opening fire on him.
Hendricks' death has sparked widespread outrage and grief across various communities, with leaders and organizations calling for a detailed investigation into what many fear could be a hate crime. Julia Ehrt, the executive director of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (Ilga), lamented the loss of a figure who had profoundly impacted countless individuals' journeys to reconcile their faith with their sexual orientation.
Reports indicate that Hendricks was killed shortly after officiating a lesbian wedding, although this detail remains unconfirmed. Security footage has emerged showing the harrowing moments of the shooting, with an assailant firing multiple rounds into the backseat of the vehicle where Hendricks was seated. The Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which he founded and which administers the Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque, confirmed the nature of his death as a targeted attack.
Known for challenging orthodox views within Islam, Hendricks created a supportive environment for queer Muslims. He founded The Inner Circle in 1996, a group assisting individuals in reconciling their sexual identities with their religious beliefs, which led to establishing the inclusive mosque. Despite South Africa's progressive laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights, including the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2006, violence against the community remains prevalent.
Hendricks' work was celebrated in a documentary titled "The Radical," where he spoke candidly about facing threats throughout his life, asserting that his need for authenticity outweighed his fear of death. His legacy includes advocating for interfaith dialogue and addressing mental health concerns among LGBTQ+ individuals in religious environments.
Fellow activists mourned Hendricks' passing, lauding his courage and impact on promoting inclusive faith communities. Sadiq Lawal, a gay Muslim from Nigeria, highlighted Hendricks' role as a mentor for many in Africa, where openly expressing one's sexual identity can be perilous.
As the investigation into his murder unfolds, leaders call for justice to honor the memory of a trailblazer who bravely lived his truth and championed acceptance within faith communities worldwide.
