The first openly gay imam was killed in South Africa, Argentina restricted trans youth healthcare rights, and a Dolly Parton musical was halted in England after homophobic abuse.
First Openly Gay Imam Killed in South Africa
Muhsin Hendricks, the world’s first openly gay imam, was fatally shot near Gqeberha, South Africa. Police say two masked gunmen ambushed his vehicle, firing multiple rounds.
According to The Guardian, Hendricks, a champion for LGBTQ Muslims, founded the Al-Ghurbaah mosque, offering a safe space for marginalized worshipers.
“Maybe it’s time we started our own space, so people can pray without being judged,” he said at the time.
Authorities are investigating the killing, with concerns it may be a hate crime. The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association urged a thorough probe.
Hendricks had previously acknowledged threats but remained steadfast in his advocacy.
“The need to be authentic is greater than the fear to die,” he said in 2022.
Argentina Restricts Trans Youth Healthcare Rights
Photo via Argentina.gob.ar, Wikimedia Commons.
Argentina’s President Javier Milei has issued a decree limiting minors’ access to gender-affirming care, sparking outrage among human rights groups. The move modifies Argentina’s Gender Identity Law, which previously guaranteed access to such treatments.
According to The Washington Blade, legal experts argue the decree is unconstitutional, with the Argentine LGBT Federation (FALGBT) vowing to challenge it in court.
“That law was approved by a wide majority in both chambers,” said FALGBT President María Rachid.
Critics warn the decree disregards medical consensus and international human rights standards. Trans activist Ornella Infante condemned Milei’s broader policies, stating, “It is a class hatred to sectors with organizational and mobilization capacity.”
ILGA World urges global action, calling the decree “an abuse of executive power.”
Dolly Parton Musical Halted in England Due to Homophobic Abuse
Photo by Stevie Webb, Facebook.
A Dolly Parton-themed musical in Manchester was suspended mid-show after a homophobic outburst from an audience member. Actor Stevie Webb, who plays a devoted fan in “Here You Come Again,” revealed that the cast had to leave the stage after a woman expressed outrage over a gay character.
Webb shared on TikTok that the incident was not isolated, as another disruption occurred over the weekend, forcing a man’s removal from the venue.
“Travelling the country and seeing how many people literally cannot bear to see a gay person depicted on stage – it’s wild,” Webb said.
According to The Guardian, the Manchester Opera House, where the show was performed, reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity, stating, “We have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, harassment, or abusive behavior.”
Despite these disruptions, the musical continues its run, celebrating Parton’s legacy. The country icon, a longtime LGBTQ ally, once stated, “I think everyone should be with who they love.”
Directed by Gabriel Barre, “Here You Come Again” portrays Parton as a guiding presence in a struggling fan’s life. The production has faced similar backlash in London, highlighting ongoing challenges in fostering inclusive theater spaces.
