Muhsin Hendricks, recognized as the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot dead near Gqeberha, South Africa. He was targeted while in a vehicle with another individual, where unknown assailants opened fire. Hendricks was an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights within the Muslim community, having founded a mosque to provide a safe space for marginalized individuals. The motive behind his murder remains unclear, and authorities are urged to investigate the case, which many suspect may be a hate crime, highlighted by condemnation from LGBTQ+ organizations.
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association denounced the killing, calling for a thorough investigation into what may be a hate crime.
I opened my garage, put a carpet down and invited people to have tea and talk, he told the Guardian in 2022.
In 2011 Hendricks bolstered his role as an imam figure by setting up a mosque space after a friend endured a local sermon condemning homosexuality.
I said, Maybe it's time we started our own space, so people can pray without being judged'.
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