South Africa: World's first openly gay Imam shot dead

27 days ago

2 mins

South Africa: World's first openly gay Imam shot dead

Muhsin Hendricks, First Openly Gay Imam, Tragically Killed in South Africa

In a tragic incident in Bethelsdorp, South Africa, Muhsin Hendricks, known as the world's first openly gay Imam, was shot dead. The local police are investigating the incident, with the motive still unclear. Hendricks was in a car with a driver when two masked suspects fired multiple shots, resulting in his death.

Community Reactions

The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World) expressed shock over Hendricks' assassination. South Africa's Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is committed to ensuring justice if the murder is confirmed as a hate crime. The Muslim Judicial Council of South Africa condemned the killing, despite differing views on same-sex relationships.

Hendricks' Legacy

Hendricks founded the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, supporting Queer Muslims in reconciling their faith with their sexual orientation. He was also featured in a 2022 documentary, "The Radical," which highlighted his efforts to establish a mosque for LGBTQ+ Muslims in Cape Town.

Doubts Revealed

Muhsin Hendricks

Muhsin Hendricks was a religious leader known as an Imam, who was openly gay. He was known for supporting LGBTQ+ Muslims.

Imam

An Imam is a leader in a mosque, which is a place where Muslims go to pray. Imams lead prayers and help teach people about Islam.

Openly Gay

Being openly gay means that a person is not hiding the fact that they are attracted to people of the same gender. Muhsin Hendricks was open about being gay.

Bethelsdorp

Bethelsdorp is a place in South Africa. It is where Muhsin Hendricks was tragically killed.

International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association

This is a group that works to support and protect the rights of people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or intersex. They were shocked by Muhsin Hendricks' death.

Al-Ghurbaah Foundation

The Al-Ghurbaah Foundation is an organization started by Muhsin Hendricks to help Muslims who are part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Queer Muslims

Queer Muslims are people who follow the Islamic faith and identify as LGBTQ+. They may face challenges because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.