A prominent South African imam and advocate for gay rights was shot and killed in the coastal city of Gqeberha, police said. Muhsin Hendricks, who founded a non-profit organization supporting Muslim LGBTQ+ individuals, is being remembered as a champion of tolerance and acceptance.
Hendricks’ Al-Ghurbaah Foundation provided critical services to Muslims discriminated against for their sexual orientation and gender identity. The South Africa Human Rights Commission condemned the killing, which has left many in the community shaken.
Despite facing fierce criticism online, Hendricks remained committed to promoting understanding and respect. His work was recognized by organizations like the International Lesbian, Gay Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA), who hailed him as a “testament to the healing that solidarity across communities can bring.”
South Africa’s approach to LGBTQ+ rights is seen as a beacon of hope on the continent, with the country being one of only two nations in Africa where same-sex relationships are not criminalized. The government has promised to investigate the killing as a hate crime, with Deputy Justice Minister Andries Nel vowing to bring suspects to justice.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/17/world/africa/south-african-imam-gay-rights-dead.html