Renowned Islamic cleric Muhsin Hendricks, the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot and killed near Gqeberha, South Africa. Police reported that two masked attackers blocked the car Hendricks was traveling in, opened fire, and fled the scene. Investigations are underway, and the motive remains unclear.
Hendricks, a prominent LGBTQ advocate since 1996, ran Al-Ghurbaah mosque in Cape Town as a safe space for queer Muslims and marginalized women. He had previously spoken about threats to his life but prioritized authenticity over fear.
A video of the killing has circulated on social media, confirmed as authentic by police. The tragic loss of Hendricks highlights the dangers faced by advocates for marginalized communities.