World’s First Openly Gay Imam, Muhsin Hendricks, Killed in South Africa (Source: BBC)
Muhsin Hendricks, a groundbreaking figure known as the world’s first openly gay imam, was tragically shot and killed in South Africa on Saturday.
The 57-year-old cleric, who ran a mosque in Cape Town as a safe space for LGBTQ+ Muslims, was ambushed near the city of Gqeberha. According to police, two masked attackers fired multiple shots at the car he was traveling in, leaving the community in shock.
Hendricks’ death has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from around the world. Julia Ehrt, from the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA), called for a thorough investigation, fearing this could be a hate crime. She praised Hendricks for his work in helping LGBTQ+ Muslims reconcile their faith and sexuality, calling his life a testament to the power of solidarity.
Hendricks was reportedly returning from officiating a lesbian wedding when the attack occurred, though this has not been officially confirmed. Security footage shared on social media shows the horrifying moment when a car blocked Hendricks’ vehicle, and an attacker fired repeatedly through the back window.
Hendricks’ Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which operates the Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque in Cape Town, confirmed his death as a targeted attack. Abdulmugheeth Petersen, the foundation’s chair, urged patience and respect for Hendricks’ family during this difficult time.
As a trailblazer, Hendricks challenged traditional views of Islam and promoted a more inclusive and compassionate faith. He came out as gay in 1996, shocking many in the Muslim community, and later founded The Inner Circle, an organization supporting LGBTQ+ Muslims. In 2022, he was featured in a documentary called The Radical, where he spoke about the threats he faced, saying, “The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die.”
South Africa, despite having progressive laws protecting LGBTQ+ rights, still struggles with high levels of discrimination and violence against gay people. Hendricks’ work was a beacon of hope for many, especially in Africa, where LGBTQ+ individuals often face extreme prejudice.
Reverend Jide Macaulay, a British-Nigerian LGBTQ+ rights activist, described Hendricks’ death as “truly heartbreaking.” He praised Hendricks for his courage and leadership, saying his legacy would continue to inspire inclusive faith communities worldwide.
Sadiq Lawal, a gay Muslim man from Nigeria, told the BBC that Hendricks had made “the impossible possible” by proudly declaring, “I’m a queer imam.” He called Hendricks a mentor to many queer Muslims in Africa, particularly in countries like Nigeria, where LGBTQ+ individuals face severe persecution.
Hendricks’ death is a devastating loss for the LGBTQ+ community and interfaith dialogue. His life and work remind us of the importance of acceptance, compassion, and the fight for equality.
As the world mourns his passing, his legacy will continue to inspire those striving for a more inclusive future.
(Source: BBC and other cited articles)
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c05l33j7rq7o