Final Moments Shined for Pioneering Gay Imam Who Broke Boundaries
The brutal execution-style killing of openly gay imam Muhsin Hendricks has deeply shaken the LGBTQ+ community in South Africa, instilling a sense of fear while also fueling their determination to combat marginalization within religious circles.
Reverend Toni Kruger-Ayebazibwe, an openly gay Christian cleric, described Hendricks as “a gentle spirit who brought light into any room he occupied.” She expressed that the void left by his death is immense and acknowledged that many queer Muslims worldwide are grief-stricken. The 57-year-old imam was shot dead on a Saturday in Gqeberha, though initial reports suggesting he had been there to perform gay couple weddings were later dismissed.
Hendricks’ Al-Gurbaah Foundation clarified that he had been visiting the city to officiate at two interfaith heterosexual couples wedding ceremonies when he was tragically killed. Despite this clarification, it highlights Hendricks’ willingness to push boundaries and challenge traditional views within Islam.
Traditional imams in South Africa rarely perform marriages between Muslims and non-Muslims, yet Hendricks conducted such a ceremony without issue. His supporters celebrated him as the world’s first openly gay imam who helped reconcile sexuality with Islamic faith. This recognition stands out given that he was ostracized by leading bodies like the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) and the United Ulama Council of South Africa (UUCSA), which dismissed his work entirely.
South Africa, having a thriving LGBTQ+ community since 2006 when it became the first country in Africa to legalize same-sex marriage, faces ongoing challenges. While religious groups such as the Dutch Reformed Church and Methodist Church have adopted more inclusive policies toward LGBT individuals, pockets of conservatism remain within these faith communities.
Dr Fatima Essop, a senior lecturer in Islamic Studies at South Africa’s University of the Western Cape, expressed shock at the violent backlash against Hendricks. She emphasized that Islam traditionally values compassion and mercy, highlighting that such violence has no justification from an Islamic perspective.
Despite fear for their safety following Hendricks’ killing, Reverend Kruger-Ayebazibwe stated that LGBTQ+ leaders would continue to campaign for change due to the significance of their work. The Al-Gurbaah Foundation plans a future memorial service in honor of his contributions.
Hendricks’ legacy continues beyond his untimely death; he has multiplied himself through those who advocate for similar causes, ensuring that his message and struggles remain relevant within LGBTQ+ rights movements worldwide.
