Members of the LGBTQ community paid tribute to Muhsin Hendricks, the world’s first openly gay imam, at Cape Town Pride over the weekend.
The queer Muslim leader was shot dead in what is believed to be a homophobic attack last month.
CAPE TOWN PRIDE: REMEMBERING MUHSIN HENDRIKS
On Saturday morning, dozens of protestors marched for justice at the Cape Town Pride over the brutal murder of Muhsin Hendriks.
Members of the LGBTQ community, as well as allies, held up placards calling for the protection and recognition of all queer people.
Queer Faith Collective’s Nima Taylor said during the march of Muhsin: “His life, cut short by violence, was one of love, compassion, and resilience.
“As we continue to process the grief of his loss, it’s up to us to carry forward his legacy and stand firm in the pursuit of justice”.
An attendee told Reuters that the Cape Town Pride goers were “celebrating” the life of the world’s first gay imam.
Edwin Meyer said: “He was spreading the word to his own community. To the kids in his community, young people, gay, queer people that wasn’t accepted by his (their) family. He accepted them as a father, a father figure. He was just spreading love, and that’s why we are celebrating his life today.”
Last month, Muhsin Hendricks was shot dead by two masked men who ambushed his vehicle in Gqeberha. According to reports, the 57-year-old had officiated a lesbian wedding before his murder.
Muhsin came out as gay in 2006 and founded The Inner Circle, an NGO that provided support and a safe haven to queer Muslims seeking to reconcile their faith. He also established the inclusive Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque.
NO ARRESTS MADE
According to Deputy Police Minister Polly Boshielo, police are “hot on the heels” of the men who shot and killed Muhsin Hendricks.
No arrests have been made to date.
Like many Cape Town Pride attendees, President Cyril Ramaphosa also condemned the hate crime as a “heinous attack” on the LGBTQ community.
In a tweet he paid tribute to the gay imam, and called on authorities to take swift action.
DID YOU ATTEND CAPE TOWN PRIDE?
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