Muhsin Hendricks, widely recognized as the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot and killed in a targeted attack on Saturday near Gqeberha, South Africa. Hendricks, 57, had been a pioneering figure in the Muslim community for his advocacy of LGBTQ+ inclusion, having led the Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque in Cape Town, a space known for welcoming marginalized Muslims.
South African police reported that two masked gunmen ambushed Hendricks’ vehicle, opening fire as it was blocked by another car. Footage shared widely on social media captured the chilling moment the assailant fired through the vehicle’s back window. Authorities confirmed the shooting as a targeted attack, but have yet to provide further details on a possible motive.
The Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which runs the mosque, expressed their grief, confirming Hendricks’ death and urging the public to respect the privacy of his family during this difficult time. There are unconfirmed reports suggesting that Hendricks may have been killed shortly after officiating a lesbian wedding, though police have not verified this information.
Hendricks’ death has sparked an outpouring of tributes, particularly from the LGBTQ+ community. Julia Ehrt, executive director of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, mourned his passing, calling for a full investigation into what may have been a “hate crime.”
“He supported and mentored so many people in South Africa and around the world in their journey to reconcile with their faith,” said Ehrt. “His life has been a testament to the healing that solidarity across communities can bring.”
Hendricks, who came out as gay in 1996, faced intense backlash from South Africa’s Muslim community for his openness. That same year, he founded The Inner Circle, a support network for queer Muslims. Later, he went on to establish the inclusive Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque, which became a safe space for LGBTQ+ Muslims to practice their faith without fear of discrimination.
Reverend Jide Macaulay, a British-Nigerian LGBTQ+ activist, called Hendricks’ death “heartbreaking,” acknowledging his courage in fostering inclusive faith communities. Hendricks had also spoken about the threats against his life in the 2022 documentary The Radical, where he said, “The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die.”
Despite South Africa’s progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights, including legalizing same-sex marriage and providing constitutional protections, the country still experiences significant anti-LGBTQ+ violence. Hendricks’ death underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in navigating religious and societal acceptance.
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