South Africa’s first openly gay imam, Moegsien Hendricks, was tragically shot dead while officiating a wedding for a lesbian couple in the Eastern Cape. The incident has sparked outrage and renewed calls for justice and equality.

The Incident: What Happened?

On the morning of Saturday, February 15, 2025, Imam Moegsien Hendricks was in Gqeberha, specifically Bethelsdorp, to perform a wedding ceremony for a lesbian couple. The couple had struggled to find a local imam willing to marry them, as the local Muslim community and religious leaders had refused their request.

Community Reaction and Controversy

A Facebook user, Rif’at Brower, shared that the local imam, Sheikh Mukhtar from Port Elizabeth, along with others, had declined to marry Naadirah Abader’s daughter and her non-Muslim partner. According to Brower’s post, the couple then reached out to Imam Hendricks from Cape Town to officiate the wedding.

Shockingly, Brower’s post also included controversial statements suggesting approval of the killing, calling it a reduction of “Fasaad” (moral corruption) in the community. These statements highlight the deep-rooted prejudices and dangers faced by LGBTQI+ individuals and their allies within certain conservative communities.

Police Investigation: What We Know So Far

According to police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, the motive for the shooting remains unclear. The attack occurred at around 10 a.m. when a silver Hilux double cab blocked the vehicle carrying Imam Hendricks and his driver. Two masked attackers fired multiple shots before fleeing the scene. Tragically, Imam Hendricks, who was seated at the back of the gold-colored VW T-Roc, died from his injuries.

The police have urged the community to come forward with any information that could lead to the identification of the attackers. Detective Colonel Dawie Schotz is leading the investigation and can be contacted at 082 319 8673. Alternatively, the public can call SAPS Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or report anonymously at any police station.

Imam Moegsien Hendricks: A Trailblazer for LGBTQI+ Muslims

Imam Hendricks made history in 1996 when he publicly came out as gay, becoming the world’s first openly gay imam. He founded the Al-Ghurbaah (The Strangers) Foundation, based in a mosque in Wynberg, to support LGBTQI+ Muslims. The foundation offers programs that help Muslims reconcile their faith with their sexuality, providing a safe space for those facing rejection and discrimination.

Through his work, Imam Hendricks challenged traditional interpretations of Islam and advocated for inclusivity and acceptance. His courage and dedication inspired many, but also made him a target of criticism and, as this tragedy shows, violent hate.

The Impact of Hate and Homophobia

Imam Hendricks' murder is not just a crime against an individual but also an attack on the principles of love, acceptance, and equality. His death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by LGBTQI+ individuals and allies in communities where conservative religious beliefs are deeply entrenched.

The incident underscores the need for education, dialogue, and reform to promote tolerance and understanding. It also highlights the critical role of law enforcement and community leaders in protecting vulnerable individuals and standing against hate crimes.

Practical Advice for LGBTQI+ Individuals and Allies

• Stay Safe: Always prioritize safety when attending events or advocating for LGBTQI+ rights, especially in areas known for hostility.
• Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with local laws regarding discrimination and hate crimes. Report any threats or incidents to the authorities.
• Build a Support Network: Connect with local or online LGBTQI+ groups and allies for support and guidance.
• Engage in Dialogue: Where safe and possible, engage in conversations to educate and promote understanding within your community.
• Be an Ally: Stand up against hate speech and discrimination, and offer support to those in need.

Conclusion: A Call for Justice and Change

The tragic death of Imam Moegsien Hendricks must not be in vain. It should serve as a catalyst for meaningful change, prompting communities and authorities to take stronger action against hate crimes and promote a culture of acceptance and equality for all. Only through justice, education, and compassion can we hope to create a safer and more inclusive society.