A Trailblazer's Tragic End
The world was left in shock following the tragic death of Muhsin Hendricks, known internationally as the first openly gay imam. Hendricks was fatally shot on February 15, 2025, in Bethelsdorp, a suburb in Gqeberha, South Africa. This brutal attack occurred while he was attending a wedding. Reports say masked assailants used a Toyota Hilux to block Hendricks' vehicle, unleashing a flurry of bullets before making their escape.
Police investigations are ongoing, with authorities exploring various angles, including the possibility of a hate crime, given Hendricks' role as a prominent LGBTQ+ advocate. The LGBTQ+ community worldwide, alongside numerous human rights organizations, has condemned this heinous act, pressing for a thorough investigation.
A Life Committed to Inclusivity and Change
Muhsin Hendricks was born in 1967 in Cape Town, within a traditional Muslim household. By the time he publicly identified as gay in 1996, he had become a beacon for many LGBTQ+ Muslims grappling with the complexities of balancing faith and identity. His efforts led to the founding of the Al-Fitrah Foundation, previously known as Inner Circle, which aims to support LGBTQ+ Muslims.
In 2011, Hendricks made history by establishing Masjidul Ghurbaah, South Africa’s first mosque that openly embraced LGBTQ+ individuals. Through this and his other initiatives, he provided a sanctuary for those often marginalized by mainstream religious spaces. His work extended beyond South Africa, affecting the lives of queer Muslims globally.
Despite facing hostility and threats from more conservative factions within the Muslim community, Hendricks remained steadfast. He aimed to reinterpret Quranic teachings to advocate for an Islam that is inclusive at its core, challenging longstanding anti-LGBTQ+ notions.
His passion and commitment were captured in the 2022 documentary film The Radical, which chronicled his journey and relentless fight for authenticity in the face of danger.
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) has honored Hendricks as a “pioneering leader” who has left a lasting imprint on the lives of many.
South Africa, while known for its progressive stance on LGBTQ+ issues, continues to struggle with high levels of violence. Hendricks' death highlights the glaring disparities between legal rights and the everyday realities faced by marginalized communities. His untimely passing is not just a blow to those he directly helped but serves as a grim reminder of the continued risks that LGBTQ+ advocates confront around the world.
Abby Culbertson
i cant believe they took him away like that. its just so sad.
Awolumate Muhammed Abayomi
this is a huge loss for everyone. we need to keep his messgae alive and support each other. let's stand together and push for real change.
Josh Tate
the world lost a true bridge‑builder. his work showed that faith and queerness can coexist. many people found safety in his mosque, and that legacy shouldn't fade. we have to honor him by continuing the dialogue he started.
John Smith
no one can deny that muhsi n hendricks changed the religious landscape for queer folks. he showed that you can be devout and still love who you love. the fact that he built a mosque that welcomed everyone blew many conservative minds. people who thought faith and sexuality were mutually exclusive finally saw proof otherwise. his sermons blended Quranic verses with messages of love and acceptance. the al‑fitrah foundation became a sanctuary for countless individuals. even after facing threats, he never backed down or silenced his voice. this kind of resilience is rare and should be studied by activists worldwide. the documentary ‘the radical’ captured his spirit in a way most media fail to. watching it makes you realize how dangerous hate can be when unchecked. the shooting in bethelsdorp is a stark reminder that violence still stalks our communities. law may protect rights on paper but on the street the story is different. we need more than legislation; we need cultural shift. his death should ignite a fire under policymakers to actually enforce safety. it also forces every ally to step up and not just speak when it's comfortable. in the end, his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he saved and the doors he opened.
Alex Soete
what an incredible life he led! i think his story shows that love really does conquer hate. we should celebrate the spaces he created and keep them thriving. his vision is a reminder that inclusion is possible everywhere.
Cara McKinzie
what a tragic END to a so‑called “progress” story.
Joseph Conlon
while the headline screams tragedy, it's worth noting that his work also sparked intense debate within orthodox circles. the backlash wasn't just random hate; it highlighted deep theological rifts that have existed for centuries. some argue that redefining scripture threatens communal cohesion, even if they disagree with violent outcomes. still, the choice to use violence defeats any legitimate theological argument. history will remember him for both the bridges built and the storms he stirred.
Mohit Singh
this murder is a cowardly act that hurts everyone. we must condemn it loudly.
Damian Liszkiewicz
the world lost a true pioneer 🌈. his courage reminds us that faith can be inclusive 🙏. let’s keep his vision alive.
Angela Arribas
clear communication matters when fighting hate; using proper punctuation shows respect. :)
Sienna Ficken
oh sure, because a misplaced comma will stop shooters, right? maybe we should start a punctuation police force.
Zac Death
i appreciate john's deep dive, but let's also remember the everyday heroes who kept the mosque doors open after the attack. those volunteers showed that love is action, not just words. we should amplify their stories alongside the headlines. every act of kindness counters the darkness that tried to silence him. keep sharing the good work, folks.
Lizzie Fournier
let’s keep his message alive in our daily actions.
JAN SAE
Absolutely, we must, indeed, honor his memory, and continue, the work he began, with compassion, and determination.
Steve Dunkerley
From a sociopolitical perspective, Hendricks' demise underscores the dissonance between statutory protections and lived insecurity among sexual minorities.
Jasmine Hinds
so true we need more action now :)