Imam Muhsin Hendricks, 58, was fatally shot around 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15 in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape.

Most headlines call him the “world’s first openly gay imam,” a newsworthy descriptor but hardly the whole story. Beyond Muhsin’s work with queer Muslims, he was a pillar of queer rights activism and the queer interfaith movement globally. He was a father, a grandfather and a friend.

The world's first openly gay imam in the Muslim faith was shot and killed in what local authorities say may be a hate crime.

A man regarded as the first openly gay Muslim imam has been fatally shot while sitting in a car in South Africa in what many are calling an assassination because of his teachings.

Muhsin Hendricks, an imam who was outspoken in his support of queer people in the South Africa's Muslim community, was murdered on Saturday in Gqeberha. It is reported that he was the world's first openly gay imam.

Muhsin Hendricks, the world’s first openly gay Imam, was shot dead on February 15, 2025, in South Africa. A pioneer for LGBTQ+ Muslims, he founded The Inner Circle and an inclusive mosque. His murder has sparked outrage, raising urgent questions about the safety of those who challenge norms. Read More

Muhsin Hendricks, renowned as the first openly gay Imam, was tragically killed in South Africa. Police report unclear motives behind the shooting. Advocates mourn his passing, highlighting his efforts in supporting LGBTQ+ Muslims.

Muhsin Hendricks was credited by some as being the world’s first openly gay imam and helped Muslims reconcile their faith with their sexual orientation.

Muhsin Hendricks showed the world that "it's possible to be both queer and a devout Muslim," says his longtime friend and colleague.