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
-
Queens of the South: When Nice Turns Carnival into Queer Celebration
On 27 February 2026, Place Masséna in Nice will shimmer a little brighter. Lou Queernaval,
-
Cœur de pirate at AB: the runaway pop of a queer icon lands in Brussels
A major figure in Francophone pop and an outspoken voice in the queer community, Cœur de pirate
-
Safer on Paper, Not in Reality”: ILGA Warns of Rising Anti-LGBTQIA+ Violence in Belgium
Belgium still ranks among Europe’s most protective countries for LGBTQIA+ people on paper – yet
-
“March Is for the Queers”: Why You Should Put Queer March Ghent 2026 on Your Radar
Every March, Queer March turns Ghent into a month-long celebration of queer life, resistance, and
-
Six Charming Princes for Three Castles: LGBT Couples Rebuilding France’s Fairy‑Tale Landscape
First, there were princesses in towers waiting for some vaguely straight prince on a horse.
Nederlands (België) 
English 
Français de Belgique