A Shocking and Tragic Loss
In a tragic incident reflecting the ongoing struggles for LGBTQ+ safety, Muhsin Hendricks was killed in cold blood. Known globally as the world’s first openly gay cleric, Hendricks was targeted and murdered near Gqeberha, South Africa, on February 15, 2025. This brutal assassination occurred while he was traveling with someone else, when a car suddenly blocked their route. Two masked assailants emerged, shooting multiple times without mercy.
Hendricks had made waves not just in South Africa but internationally, by bravely spearheading the Al-Ghurbaah Mosque in Cape Town. This mosque wasn’t ordinary; it served as a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ Muslims and marginalized women, offering a safe space often hard to find in traditional religious communities. Despite death threats shadowing his life, Hendricks stood firm, emphasizing compassion and acceptance.
Reflecting on the Broader Issue
The death of Muhsin Hendricks cast a glaring spotlight on the threats still facing LGBTQ+ advocates in a country where violence is unfortunately not uncommon. As highlighted by South Africa’s staggering annual figure of 28,000 murders, safety concerns remain ever-present. Hendricks' murder isn’t just a tragic loss for those who knew him but a call to action regarding the persistent dangers risked by people who openly support and belong to the LGBTQ+ community.
His life and work were notably featured in the 2022 documentary, The Radical. This film underscored his radical yet heartening approach of merging faith with inclusivity, challenging traditional norms while fostering love and understanding. The brutal end to such a pioneering life is a somber reminder of the unresolved issues plaguing LGBTQ+ rights and safety in South Africa.
As mourners gather to remember Hendricks for his courage and groundbreaking leadership, there is an urgent call for action — not just to seek justice for his murder but to bolster protections for all who dare to live openly and advocate fiercely for change.