Press Release
Global Communities Mourn Loss of Imam Muhsin Hendricks: A Pioneering Advocate for LGBTIQ People’s Human Rights and Inclusion
Region(s)
TOPIC(s)
Publish Date
February 21, 2025
Authors
New York, New York - February 21, 2025 - Outright International joins the world in paying tribute to South African human rights advocate Imam Muhsin Hendricks, a champion for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ) people’s rights and inclusion in faith spaces, who was murdered on Saturday, February 15, 2025, in South Africa.
He ignited hope throughout the globe as a fearless advocate in both social and religious spaces. Despite facing significant challenges, including death threats and losing his position as an imam due to his sexual orientation, Imam Muhsin Hendricks remained resolute in his commitment to living authentically and fighting for the rights of others. Among his breakthroughs, he will be remembered for the establishment of a masjid that was inclusive, where he continued to practice as an imam.
Hendricks was a selfless advocate who transformed his own experiences of adversity into a guiding light for others whose families and communities have shunned them. Despite facing threats to his life and enduring the challenges of being the world's first openly gay imam, he founded The Inner Circle, an organization that provided a safe space for Muslims grappling with their sexual orientation, gender identity, and faith. His work extended beyond South Africa to advocate for the rights of LGBTIQ people, and he conducted numerous multifaith training courses for the Global Interfaith Network.
His work and advocacy have been instrumental in challenging the weaponization of faith and religion to oppress LGBTIQ people, which helped highlight the importance of creating inclusive and compassionate religious spaces where everyone can practice their faith without fear of discrimination or violence.
Quote from Maria Sjödin (they/she)
"Imam Muhsin Hendricks exemplified the courage and compassion we need in our fight for justice. We must honor his legacy by continuing to advocate for a world where everyone can live authentically and safely,"
News of his murder sent shockwaves globally to human rights defenders, allies, and governments around the world who describe his legacy as one of courage, compassion, and inclusion, inspiring people and movements across religion and diversity. His peers and fellow activists deeply respected and admired him for his mission to create a more inclusive and compassionate world for all.
South Africa is celebrated for its progressive legal protections for LGBTIQ people: same-sex relations are legal, and the law prohibits against discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics. The country was also the first in Africa to achieve marriage equality. However, the tragic murder of Imam Muhsin Hendricks is another example of the ongoing challenges that LGBTIQ communities in South Africa still face. In the wake of this incident, there is a need for civil society to break silos and stand in solidarity with allies against enemies of progress as a sign of respect for his legacy. This is crucial for advancing our rights and protections beyond South Africa.
Quote from Thiruna Naidoo
“Imam Hendrick’s passing is a tremendous loss not just for the South African queer community but for the global LGBTIQ movement. As a faith leader and an activist, he broke down barriers and fearlessly served the Muslim community, despite widespread rejections of his message of bringing inclusion to faith spaces as a way of promoting acceptance and love. His legacy will continue to live through his work at Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which supports Queer Muslims in reconciling their faith of Islam with their sexual orientation and gender identity, and The Inner Circle,”
Outright International supports the South African government’s call for a swift investigation in pursuit of justice. The tragic killing of Imam Muhsin Hendricks is a profound loss for LGBTIQ activism and advocacy. We send condolences to his family and everyone who loved him. We stand in solidarity with all those who have been touched by his presence, and are committed to continuing the important work of advocating for a world in which all LGBTIQ people are free, safe, and able to be visible. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide our efforts to advance rights and inclusion around the globe.
Read Our Publications
Since 1990, we have partnered with activists from all over the world to produce hundreds of groundbreaking reports.
Learn More