Muhsin Hendricks, the world’s first openly gay imam and a trailblazing figure in the LGBTQ+ Muslim community, has tragically been shot dead in South Africa.
The 57-year-old cleric, renowned for running a mosque in Cape Town that welcomed marginalized Muslims, was killed in a shocking targeted attack on Saturday morning near Gqeberha, a city on South Africa’s southern coast. Two masked assailants ambushed the car Hendricks was traveling in, firing multiple shots into the backseat.
Hendricks’ death has sent shockwaves through the LGBTQ+ community worldwide. He was a beacon of hope for many, creating spaces where queer Muslims could reconcile their faith with their sexuality.
Executive Director of ILGA, Julia Ehrt, called for a thorough investigation into what is feared to be a hate crime, praising Hendricks for his mentorship to countless individuals who sought peace with their identity and faith. “His life was a testament to the healing power of solidarity across communities,” Ehrt said.
Hendricks, who had recently officiated a lesbian wedding (though unconfirmed), was known for his radical approach to Islam, challenging conservative interpretations and championing an inclusive, compassionate faith. His groundbreaking work included founding The Inner Circle, which provided a safe space for queer Muslims, and establishing the Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque in Cape Town. The mosque quickly became a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ Muslims seeking acceptance and spiritual solace.
Despite South Africa’s progressive constitution, which first legalized same-sex marriage in 2006 and protects people from discrimination based on sexual orientation, LGBTQ+ individuals still face violence and discrimination. Hendricks, who came out as gay in 1996, confronted these challenges head-on.
He was the subject of the 2022 documentary The Radical, where he famously said, “The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die.”
Hendricks’ death comes as a devastating loss to the LGBTQ+ community, both in South Africa and across the globe. His courage to live authentically, despite immense opposition, inspired countless others, including Reverend Jide Macaulay, an openly gay Anglican minister, who described Hendricks’ passing as “truly heartbreaking.”
Sadiq Lawal, a gay Muslim living in Nigeria, called Hendricks a mentor to many queer Muslims, particularly in places like Nigeria, where religious extremism creates immense pressure. “He made the impossible possible,” Lawal said, referring to Hendricks’ famous declaration, “I’m a queer imam.”
Hendricks’ legacy will live on as a symbol of courage, inclusivity, and the relentless fight for a faith that embraces all. His impact has been profound, showing that love and faith can exist in harmony, no matter one’s identity.
