At a time when LGBTQ+ people face increasing violence, a rare moment of hope comes from La Coruña, Spain. The city has granted honorary citizenship naar Ibrahima Diack and Magatte N’Diaye, two Senegalese migrants who risked their lives trying to save Samuel Luiz, a young gay man brutally beaten to death in 2021.
On July 3, 2021, Samuel Luiz, 24, was viciously attacked outside a nightclub. While many stood by, Ibrahima and Magatte stepped in to help—despite being undocumented at the time. Tragically, they couldn’t save him, but their courage made a lasting impact.

This week, La Coruña’s mayor, Inés Rey, honored them in a moving ceremony, saying:
"That two undocumented migrants were the only ones to risk their safety to help a victim of a hate-fueled mob is something to reflect on.”
Their bravery and solidarity stand in stark contrast to the bystanders who remained passive. The city’s recognition is not just symbolic—it’s a message against indifference.
Despite their recognition, Ibrahima and Magatte remain humble.
“We are not heroes,” Magatte said. “We just did what was right.” Their story is a powerful reminder that, in a world of hate, bravery and solidarity still exist
Misschien wilt u ook
-
“What About Queer?”: A Museum That Moves, Breathes, and Belongs
From June 15 to July 15, Brussels becomes home to a bold, beautiful experiment in
-
Exaequo’s Testing Week: Supporting Gay and Bisexual Men’s Health in Brussels
From June 16th to 22nd, Exaequo—Brussels’ health partner for gay and bisexual men—is hosting a
-
Sappho’s Island Is Calling: Why the Eressos Women’s Festival Still Matters
Each late summer, Skala Eressos on the Greek island of Lesvos transforms into something more
-
Madrid Pride 2025: Loud, Proud, and Louder Than Ever
From taconazo to techno, from drag divas to love declarations, Madrid Orgullo 2025 is not
-
Proud in Anderlecht Returns for Its 3rd Edition on June 14th
The vibrant heart of Brussels’ Anderlecht district will once again celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the