World’s First Openly Gay Imam Muhsin Hendricks Murdered in South Africa

Muhsin Hendricks, the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot dead in South Africa. His murder is suspected to be a hate crime, prompting calls for a thorough investigation. Hendricks founded the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation to support queer Muslims reconciled with their faith. The Muslim Judicial Council condemned his killing, highlighting ongoing violence against the LGBTQ+ community.

Muhsin Hendricks, recognized as the world’s first openly gay imam, was tragically shot dead in South Africa on Saturday. The incident occurred in Bethelsdorp, where the police have launched an investigation to determine the motive behind the killing. Details indicate that Hendricks was in a vehicle when assailants approached and opened fire, leading to his death despite efforts by the driver to escape the attack.

The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World) expressed profound shock over Hendricks’s death, urging authorities to investigate what they fear may be an act of hate. The South African Department of Justice also expressed its sadness and commitment to ensuring justice is served if the murder is confirmed as a hate crime.

Hendricks, founder of the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation in Cape Town, was devoted to supporting queer Muslims in reconciling their faith with their sexual orientation and gender identity. He was a leading figure in advocating LGBTQ+ rights within the Islamic community, despite facing significant opposition and threats. Moreover, a recent documentary, “The Radical,” highlighted his work in establishing a mosque for LGBTQ+ Muslims amid challenging circumstances.

The Muslim Judicial Council of South Africa condemned the murder as abhorrent, acknowledging that while they may disagree with Hendricks’s views on same-sex relationships, any violence towards him or the LGBTQ+ community is unacceptable. Their statement emphasizes the need for safety and respect for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or beliefs, underscoring the grave implications of murder as a means of oppression.

The assassination of Muhsin Hendricks has ignited concerns regarding hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community in South Africa. His legacy as a pioneer for LGBTQ+ Muslims emphasizes the ongoing struggle for acceptance and safety within both religious and societal contexts. Calls for justice reflect a broader need for protection of human rights, particularly for marginalized groups in society.

Original Source: www.cnn.com