Muhsin Hendricks, a pioneering gay imam, was tragically shot dead in South Africa after officiating a lesbian wedding. The 57-year-old cleric, who led a Cape Town mosque known for welcoming LGBTQ+ and marginalized Muslims, was ambushed near the southern city of Gqeberha.
According to reports, the Imam had been receiving threats and harassment from extremist groups who opposed his progressive views and his decision to officiate same-sex weddings. Despite the risks, the Imam had continued to stand up for the rights of LGBTQ Muslims, providing a safe space for them to practice their faith and express themselves freely.
Security footage shows a car blocking Hendricks’ vehicle before an assailant jumped out and repeatedly fired through the back window. The Al-Ghurbaah Foundation confirmed the imam’s death in what it called a targeted attack, with the foundation’s board chair urging the public to respect Hendricks’ family’s privacy as they grieve.
He founded The Inner Circle, a support organization for queer Muslims, and later established the inclusive mosque, Masjidul Ghurbaah
Hendricks was a trailblazer in advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion in Islam, despite facing opposition from mainstream Muslim organizations. He founded The Inner Circle, a support organization for queer Muslims, and later established the inclusive mosque, Masjidul Ghurbaah. His activism extended beyond South Africa, taking him to Kenya and other countries where he campaigned for LGBTQ+ rights within religious communities.
The news of Hendricks’ death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from the LGBTQ+ community, with many expressing grief and urging a full investigation into what may have been a “hate crime.” The executive director at the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, Julia Ehrt, praised Hendricks for supporting and mentoring many people in their journey to reconcile with their faith.
The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die
He was the subject of a 2022 documentary, The Radical, where he reflected on the death threats he faced, saying “the need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die.”
His death is a heartbreaking loss for the LGBTQ+ community, but his impact will continue to inspire others to fight for equality and acceptance.
