South African activists demand action to stop anti-LGBTQ violence

Last weekend, Mohsin Hendrix, the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot dead in Gkeberha, South Africa, while attending a wedding.

Women, adolescents and people with disabilities say the motivation behind Hendrix’s murder remains unknown, but there are suspicions that the crime may be a religiously motivated hate crime.

“This brutal murder is a direct attack on not just Imam Hendrix, but all moves, organizations and people defending LGBTQIA+ rights in South Africa. We call on South African police services and all law enforcement agencies to step up investigations, track the heads and preside over justice with YORSE youths.

In 1996, Hendrix became the world’s first imam to emerge as a gay person, but after he came out he was taken from his position. He was the founder of Inner Circle, a global Muslim community that advocates a society that is free from discrimination based on religion, sexual orientation and gender identity. He also founded Masjidul Ghurbaah Mosque, including LGBTQ, and led the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation.

“Allah give me Imam Hendrix Janna. You were a great teacher, a leader of man and religion. Many great fathers, many guardians, and I will continue to rest with the angels,” the Al-Gabaa Foundation said.

Additionally, the comprehensive and positive ministries (IAM) said that Hendrix played a pivotal role in uniting Muslims regardless of their sexual orientation and was a brave fighter in the fight against LGBTQ discrimination.

“IAM was the first to be pleased to work with Mushin during his tenure as founder and executive director of Inner Circle, South Africa’s first queer mosque. “Mushin’s journey with IAM has been fruitful for years, and therefore we joined the crowd in deep mourning the death of a fiercely defended and protected faith leader in South Africa, but for Muslims around the world.”

Furthermore, IAM said their quest is that Hendrix’s vision will eject him and remain an inspiration and a glorious beacon. life. “

Moreso, a global interfaith network (GIN), said Hendrick’s tragic death was an immeasurable loss for the global Muslim community, interfaith allies and human rights advocates.

“Imam Mushin is more than just a religious leader, and he is a pioneer and visionary hope for countless marginalized Muslims around the world, and as the first openly gay Imam, he boldly advocated fearless Islam, dedicatedly praised his life to praise Muslims, and to praise Muslims for his life.”

Furthermore, despite experiencing massive resistance from the Muslim community, Jin said he remains determined towards the fight for a fair society not only in South Africa but also across the continent and the world.

“He played a pivotal role in shaping the advocacy among pagans who support the dignity of people with LGBTQ+ faith and ensure that their voices are respected on a global platform.

According to Pan Africa Ilga (Pai), Hendrix’s murder reminds us of the horrifying, frightening, everyday experiences of the African LGBTQ community.

“His murder highlights the violent reality that many LGBTIQ+ individuals, especially those in the faith community, continue to face. In Africa, religious fundamentalism is increasingly weaponized to justify discrimination and harm towards LGBTIQ+ people, Sicongo, the communications officer at Pai.

Additionally, Julia Ehrt, executive director of Ilga World, said he lost Peacemaker, Bridge Builder and anyone who set an example that shows that reconciliation is possible, as proven by his endurance and patience.

“He has supported and guided many people in his journey to reconcile with their faith and many people in South Africa and around the world. His life is a testament to healing that solidarity across the community can bring to everyone’s lives. He is calling on authorities to thoroughly investigate what we fear as a hate crime,” says Ehrt.

South Africa is Africa’s most liberal country when it comes to protecting and recognizing LGBTQ rights. However, due to religious and cultural norms, the LGBTQ community often attacks little or no impact on perpetrators.