The world is mourning the loss of Muhsin Hendricks, a pioneering figure and openly gay Islamic priest who has been shot d3ad in South Africa.
News of his d3ath has sent sh0ckwaves through the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the globe.
Tributes and Reflections
Reverend Jide Macaulay, an openly gay Anglican minister, has described Hendricks’ d3ath as “truly heartbreaking”.
He praised Hendricks’ bravery and leadership in promoting inclusive faith communities, saying: “Your leadership, courage, and unwavering dedication to inclusive faith communities have left an indelible mark.”
Sadiq Lawal, a gay Muslim man living in Nigeria, has also paid tribute to Hendricks, saying: “He’s a mentor to many queer Muslims in Africa, especially in Nigeria, because of religious extremism.” He added: “I’m still in sh0ck and devastated.”
Calls for Action and Investigation
The International Lesbian, Gay, B!sexual, Trans and Inters3x Association (ILGA) has called on the authorities to thoroughly investigate the attack on Hendricks. Julia Ehrt, executive director at ILGA, said: “We fear it may have been a hate crime, and we need more information to understand the motivations behind this @tt@ck.”
Hendricks’ Al-Ghurbaah Foundation has confirmed that he was k!lled in a targeted attack, and has appealed to their followers to be patient and protect Hendricks’ family.
Remembering Hendricks’ Legacy and Work
Hendricks was a pioneering figure who challenged traditional interpretations of Islam and championed a compassionate, inclusive faith. He founded The Inner Circle, an organisation providing support and a safe space for queer Muslims seeking to reconcile their faith and sexuality, and established the inclusive Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque in Cape Town.
His work was featured in a documentary called The Radical, in which he spoke about the importance of interfaith dialogue and the need to address the mental health issues and trauma faced by LGBTQ+ individuals within religious communities.
Context and Background
South Africa is a country that has made significant progress in promoting LGBTQ+ rights. In 2006, it became the first country in Africa to legalise same-s3x marriage, and its post-apartheid constitution protects people from discrimination because of their s3xual orientation. However, despite this progress, gay people still face discrimination and violence, and South Africa has one of the highest murder rates in the world.
The Details of the Att@ck
The @ttack on Hendricks occurred on Saturday morning, when the car he was travelling in was ambushed near the southern city of Gqeberha. Security footage shows a car pulling up and blocking the vehicle, and an assailant jumping out and shooting repeatedly through the back passenger window.
Hendricks was k!lled after he had reportedly officiated at a lesbian wedding, although this has not been officially confirmed.
