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
You may also like
-
One Last Warm-Up: Brussels Still Has Time to Join the Biggest LGBTQI+ Choir at ING Arena
Brussels has already been singing queer for weeks, and now one of the most open
-
Lille Pride 2026 is back to claim the city in color
Lille Pride returns on Saturday 30 May 2026 with a full day of community, visibility and celebration,
-
Brussels Is About to Sing Queer: Various Voices 2026 Unfolds Across the City
From 24 to 28 June 2026, Brussels will host Various Voices, Europe’s flagship LGBTQI+ choir festival,
-
Brussels Stands with Senegal’s LGBTQIA+ Community as Repression Gets Worse
Senegal has sharply intensified its anti-LGBTQIA+ repression in 2026, with a new law that increases
-
Queer Mess Open Air: 16 Hours of Queer Joy at Circle Park
On 30 May 2026, Queer Mess Open Air takes over Circle Park in Anderlecht for
Nederlands (België) 
English 
Français de Belgique