Murder of First Openly Gay Muslim Imam Sparks Outrage in South Africa
Muhsin Hendricks, the first openly gay Muslim imam, was shot dead in South Africa, raising concerns about potential hate crimes and targeted violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.
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Police have not established a motive for the killing, but political parties and LGBTQ+ organizations say Hendricks was targeted because he started a mosque in Cape Town for gay Muslims and called for members of the LGBTQ+ community to be welcomed into Islam.
The first openly gay Muslim imam is killed in South Africa
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Shootings are common in South Africa where murder rates – already among the highest in the world – are at a 20-year high.
Man hailed as world’s first imam to say he was gay is shot dead in South Africa
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The nature of the killing strongly suggests a professional hit.
The first openly gay Muslim imam is killed in South Africa, prompting claims of an assassination
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Hendricks was known internationally and spoke at the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association's conference in South Africa last year.
The First Openly Gay Muslim Imam Is Killed in South Africa, Prompting Claims of an Assassination
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Summary
Muhsin Hendricks, regarded as the first openly gay Muslim imam, was fatally shot in South Africa, leading to widespread outrage. His assassination is believed to be linked to his advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion in Islam. Political leaders and LGBTQ+ organizations have called for a thorough investigation into the murder, which is feared to be a hate crime. Hendricks was a significant figure, founding a mosque for gay Muslims and supporting individuals grappling with their faith and sexual identity. His death underscores fears of violence against the LGBTQ+ community in South Africa.
Perspectives
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