Muhsin Hendricks, widely regarded as the world’s first openly gay imam, has been shot dead in South Africa. The 57-year-old cleric, known for his advocacy for LGBTQ+ Muslims, was ambushed and killed on Saturday morning while traveling near Gqeberha.
According to police reports, two masked gunmen stopped Hendricks’ vehicle and fired multiple shots at him. Security footage shared online shows a car blocking his vehicle before an attacker jumped out and fired repeatedly through the back passenger window, where he was seated.
A Life of Advocacy and Inclusion
Hendricks was a trailblazer in promoting an inclusive interpretation of Islam, creating safe spaces for queer Muslims to reconcile their faith and identity. He founded The Inner Circle in 1996 to support LGBTQ+ Muslims and later established the Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque in Cape Town, known for its inclusive approach.
His work often challenged conservative religious beliefs, and he faced numerous threats over the years. In a 2022 documentary titled The Radical, he stated: “The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die.”
Global Outcry and Calls for Justice
News of Hendricks’ assassination has sparked outrage and mourning worldwide. LGBTQ+ rights organizations, religious leaders, and activists have condemned the killing, urging South African authorities to thoroughly investigate what many fear may be a hate crime.
Julia Ehrt, Executive Director of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA), described Hendricks as a mentor and a beacon of hope for many marginalized Muslims.
“He supported and mentored so many people in South Africa and around the world in their journey to reconcile with their faith. His life was a testament to the healing that solidarity across communities can bring,” she said.
Reverend Jide Macaulay, a British-Nigerian LGBTQ+ rights activist and Anglican minister, described his death as “truly heartbreaking.”
“Your leadership, courage, and unwavering dedication to inclusive faith communities have left an indelible mark,” he said.
Sadiq Lawal, a gay Muslim man from Nigeria, noted that Hendricks’ work had inspired many LGBTQ+ Muslims, particularly in conservative religious environments.
“He made the impossible possible by saying the words: ‘I’m a queer imam.’ He was a mentor to many, especially in Nigeria, where religious extremism makes it difficult for queer Muslims to exist,” Lawal said.
The Struggles of LGBTQ+ Rights in South Africa
Despite South Africa’s progressive legal framework—being the first country in Africa to legalize same-sex marriage in 2006—violence against LGBTQ+ individuals remains prevalent. The country has one of the highest murder rates in the world, and hate crimes against LGBTQ+ people persist.
Hendricks’ murder has intensified concerns about the safety of queer individuals, particularly those advocating for inclusivity in religious spaces.
His foundation, Al-Ghurbaah, confirmed his death, calling for patience and support for his family while urging authorities to ensure justice.
As investigations continue, his legacy as a fearless advocate for equality and faith-based inclusion remains an inspiration to many.
