“A Martyr for Love, Justice, and Peace”: Imam Muhsin Hendricks Honoured

Civil society organisations, queer religious groups, LGBTIQ+ leaders, and the SA Human Rights Commission have honoured the memory of Cape Town’s Imam Muhsin Hendricks as a pioneer of queer religious inclusion.

A Trailblazer for Queer Religious Inclusion

Widely known as one of the world’s first out gay imams, Hendricks, 58, was assassinated by a hooded gunman in what appeared to be a targeted killing in Gqeberha on Saturday. The religious leader, who preached an LGBTIQ+ affirming version of Islam, faced criticism and death threats from radical conservative elements within his community.

His brutal murder, captured on security footage, has sparked widespread condemnation and tributes. His accomplishments included opening a queer and gender inclusive mosque in Cape Town, providing support to queer Muslim individuals struggling to reconcile their faith, proudly marrying same-sex couples, and publicly advocating for spiritual compassion and tolerance around the world.

The South African Human Rights Commission noted that Hendricks’ work “sought to create spaces of dignity and recognition for all, challenging discrimination and advocating for human rights within the framework of religious expression.”

The commission called on law enforcement authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the motive behind his killing. “Should it be confirmed that Imam Hendricks was targeted for his advocacy in support of the LGBTQI+ community, this crime would highlight the urgent need for the full and effective implementation of the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act.”

Dangers of Religious Fundamentalism

Pan Africa ILGA (PAI) stated that Hendricks dedicated his life to reconciling not only Islam but all faiths with LGBTIQ+ identities, offering sanctuary, healing, and affirmation to interfaith queer individuals who have long been excluded and persecuted.

“He created spaces of belonging for those often left at the margins of faith. His work was rooted in love, resistance, and the belief that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, has a rightful place in their spiritual communities,” said Communications Officer Arlana Shikongo.

The organisation warned that his murder highlights the ongoing violence faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals, particularly within faith communities.

“Across Africa, religious fundamentalism is increasingly being weaponised to justify discrimination and harm against LGBTIQ+ people. The loss of Imam Hendricks is not just a loss for the Muslim LGBTIQ+ community, but for all those who believe in justice, dignity, and the right to exist freely,” said PAI.

Cape Town Pride and Deputy Minister Letsike React

Cape Town Pride, currently hosting its annual Pride Festival, expressed its shock and sadness at the assassination: “Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and colleagues. We remain committed to the fight against homophobia, prejudice, and intolerance faced by the LGBTQI+ community daily. Events such as this are a sad reminder of why we still need Pride.”

Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Mmapaseka Steve Letsike said that Hendricks’ murder was a stark reminder of the discrimination and hate crimes still faced by South Africa’s LGBTQIA+ community.

Letsike, a long-standing LGBTIQ+ advocate, stated: “This brutal murder is not just about Imam Hendricks; it is a direct assault on all movements, organisations, and individuals advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights in South Africa. We call on the South African Police Service and all law enforcement agencies to strengthen their investigation and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”

Tributes from Zackie Achmat and OUT

Veteran queer social justice advocate Zackie Achmat, who also comes from Cape Town’s Muslim community, described Hendricks as “a true martyr for love, justice, and peace.” He told MambaOnline:

“Muhsin cared for the community of believers because he loved humanity. He opened his heart, studied the Quran, Hadith, and commentaries to become an imam for everyone but particularly for the queer community—not only in our country but across the world. Muhsin fought for the rights of queer Muslims to family life, marriage, and full citizenship in their communities based on Islamic principles.”

Achmat condemned the killers as “cowardly assassins” who represent a dangerous minority intent on destroying those they perceive as threats to Islam. “His executioners are not the majority of Muslims, who care about every living being on earth, including every human person,” he said.

Gauteng-based LGBTQ+ group OUT issued a statement highlighting that Hendricks provided a refuge for many queer Muslims struggling to reconcile their faith and identity.

“Muhsin was internationally recognised as a champion of LGBTIQ+ inclusive and affirming faith, not only within Islam but across religious communities. He will be remembered for his bravery, unwavering advocacy for love and compassion, and his courage to speak out despite rejection and hate,” the group asserted.

“While details surrounding the deadly attack in Gqeberha remain unclear, the targeted nature of his murder raises serious concerns about the motives behind this brutal act. His loss is a devastating blow to all South Africans who believe in a world where everyone can feel safe, welcome, and fully themselves—especially in their spiritual lives,” said OUT.

Inclusive Religious Groups Honour the Legacy of Muhsin Hendricks

The Global Interfaith Network (GIN), a worldwide network of gender and sexual minority people of faith, expressed its profound sorrow at the loss of Imam Muhsin Hendricks, one of its founding members.

“Imam Muhsin was more than just a religious leader; he was a pioneer, a visionary, and a beacon of hope for countless marginalised Muslims worldwide. He fearlessly championed an all-inclusive, compassion-centred Islam, dedicating his life to creating safe spaces for queer Muslims, advocating for justice, and redefining faith as a source of healing rather than harm.”

Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM), which worked with Hendricks for many years, mourned “the passing of a faith leader who fiercely yet gently championed and safeguarded LGBTIQ+ rights in South Africa and for Muslims across the world.”

IAM celebrated Hendricks’ tireless contribution to building inclusive and affirming faith communities. “May his vision of an Islam that is inclusive and compassion-centred outlive him and continue to liberate people from all walks of life.”

The Queer Faith Collective condemned Hendricks’ murder in “the strongest possible terms,” describing his loss as “immeasurable.”

“Imam Hendricks dedicated his life to bridging the gap between faith and inclusion, challenging harmful narratives, and fostering a space where LGBTQ+ Muslims could exist with dignity and authenticity. His assassination is not just an attack on one individual but an assault on the values of compassion, acceptance, and religious freedom that he so courageously upheld,” said the collective.

MambaOnline joins the chorus of sadness, shock and outrage at the murder of Muhsin Hendricks while remembering and honouring the deep impact his work and life had on queer communities of faith. We offer our deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, and all those whose lives he touched and changed.