Muhsin Hendricks, a pioneering figure in both the LGBTQ+ and Muslim communities, has been tragically shot and killed in South Africa. Known as the world’s first openly gay imam, the 57-year-old cleric was shot on Saturday morning in an ambush while traveling near the southern city of Gqeberha. Hendricks was a well-known advocate for LGBTQ+ Muslims, running a mosque in Cape Town that provided a safe space for gay Muslims and other marginalized individuals.
The details of the attack were revealed through security footage shared on social media, which shows a car pulling up and blocking the vehicle in which Hendricks was traveling. Two assailants wearing covered faces exited the vehicle and opened fire on the car. Hendricks was reportedly seated in the back seat. Police confirmed that the attack was a targeted killing, and they have opened an investigation.
Hendricks’ death has sent shockwaves across the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, sparking tributes from around the world. Julia Ehrt, Executive Director of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA), called for a thorough investigation into the murder, suspecting it may have been a hate crime. Ehrt praised Hendricks for his efforts to mentor people in their journey of reconciling faith and sexuality, and emphasized how his work brought healing through solidarity.
At the time of his death, Hendricks had reportedly officiated a lesbian wedding, though this detail has not been officially confirmed. His Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which operates the Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque in Cape Town, confirmed the news of the imam’s death and appealed for patience and respect for Hendricks’ grieving family.
Known for his progressive views, Hendricks challenged traditional interpretations of Islam and advocated for a more inclusive faith. He famously came out as gay in 1996, a move that shocked many in the wider Muslim community. Hendricks went on to found The Inner Circle in 1996, an organization dedicated to providing support and a safe space for queer Muslims. He later established Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque as an inclusive sanctuary for people seeking both spiritual fulfillment and acceptance of their sexual identities.
Despite the progressive strides made in South Africa—where the post-apartheid constitution was the first in the world to protect people from discrimination based on sexual orientation, and same-sex marriage was legalized in 2006—LGBTQ+ individuals in the country continue to face discrimination and violence. South Africa’s high murder rate and the enduring societal stigma surrounding LGBTQ+ identities, especially in conservative communities, remain significant challenges.
In a 2022 documentary titled The Radical, Hendricks spoke candidly about the threats he faced, stating, “The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die.” His bravery and unwavering commitment to both his faith and LGBTQ+ rights earned him widespread respect. Hendricks also frequently emphasized the importance of interfaith dialogue and addressing the mental health struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in religious communities.
Reverend Jide Macaulay, an openly gay Anglican minister and founder of House of Rainbow, an LGBTQ+ organization in Nigeria, described Hendricks’ death as “truly heartbreaking.” Macaulay lauded Hendricks for his courage and leadership in the fight for inclusive faith communities.
Sadiq Lawal, a gay Muslim man from Nigeria, also paid tribute to Hendricks, calling him a “mentor to many queer Muslims in Africa, especially in Nigeria, because of religious extremism.” Lawal recalled how Hendricks made the impossible possible by publicly declaring, “I’m a queer imam,” noting the significant impact Hendricks’ work had on LGBTQ+ Muslims in conservative, faith-based environments.
As the world mourns the loss of this trailblazing figure, Hendricks’ legacy as a champion for LGBTQ+ Muslims and interfaith reconciliation will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. His murder has ignited urgent calls for justice and for further advocacy for the safety and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.
