Muhsin Hendricks, often referred to as the world’s first openly gay imam, tragically lost his life last weekend in South Africa.
His death has sent shockwaves through both the LGBTQ and Muslim communities.
Hendricks was known for being unapologetically true to himself, no matter the cost.
He had once said in an interview, “This is who I am, and if that means I am going to be killed because of my authenticity, then that is how I choose to meet God.”
A Fearful Aftermath
The police are investigating the brutal shooting that took place in broad daylight in Gqeberha on Saturday, but they have not labeled it as a hate crime.
Regardless, Hendricks’ murder has sparked fear among South Africa’s LGBTQ community, where despite constitutional protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation, prejudice and violence remain pervasive.
A Journey of Self-Discovery and Advocacy
Described as kind-hearted and approachable, Hendricks was a trailblazer in the Muslim community.
He made history in 1996 when he became the first openly gay Muslim cleric and later founded an organization that helped Muslims reconcile their faith with their sexuality.
Born in Cape Town in 1967, Hendricks came from a family steeped in religious tradition, with a grandfather who was an imam and a mother who taught at a mosque.
He had a strict upbringing, but that didn’t stop him from pursuing religious studies, even though he struggled at times with the teachings.
In 1991, he married a woman, but he was living a lie about his sexual identity.
After six years of marriage, he divorced at the age of 29, finally deciding to embrace his true self.
“That was the point where I just felt – no more double life,” he later explained. “I needed to be authentic with myself.”
Breaking Barriers and Offering a Safe Space
After coming out, Hendricks took a bold step in 2012 by opening South Africa’s first LGBTQ-friendly mosque.
His mosque became a safe space for people of all sexual orientations and genders to practice their faith.
South Africa, being the first country in the world to legally prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation in its constitution, was a symbol of progress.
However, Hendricks still faced widespread opposition from certain sectors of society.
His efforts to create a more inclusive and compassionate interpretation of Islam earned him the admiration of many, with some describing him as a “beacon of hope” for LGBTQ Muslims and allies.
“He represented for many people the real possibility of being both queer and a person of faith, specifically Muslim faith,” shared Reverend Toni Kruger-Ayebazibwe, a friend of Hendricks.
A Legacy of Love and Tolerance
Throughout his life, Hendricks spoke about the importance of love, acceptance, and justice.
One of his final social media posts showed him lip-syncing to a Hindi song about love, a reflection of his message of inclusivity and compassion.
Hendricks used his platform to challenge traditional beliefs and to promote a “God of radical love and justice for all human beings.”
His work often focused on bridging divides, not just within the Muslim community, but across all faiths.
An Ever-Present Threat
Despite his advocacy, Hendricks was always under threat.
The father of three had voiced concerns about his safety on several occasions, citing both online and personal threats due to his outspoken views.
In 2022, he even publicly condemned a fatwa issued by the South African Muslim Judicial Council that condemned homosexuality.
Still, his tragic death took many by surprise, leaving the LGBTQ community feeling more vulnerable than ever.
Reverend Kruger-Ayebazibwe expressed the collective sense of loss, saying, “Many of us are suddenly feeling a lot more vulnerable.”
Hendricks’ death has not just been a blow to those who knew him personally, but to everyone who believes in the power of authenticity and love.
Reflecting on Safety and Community
As the dust settles on this tragic loss, the question remains: How safe do you feel in your everyday life in South Africa, especially if you belong to the LGBTQ community? Share your thoughts and let’s continue to support each other during these difficult times.