LGBTQ+ Persecution in Senegal: Solidarity in Action Between Paris and Dakar

[Article to be found in the summer issue, on newsstands or by subscription.] As the West African country engages in broad anti-queer persecution, associations and community volunteers organize urgently to help LGBT people fleeing Senegal, hiding, or awaiting their trial.

Photography: Élodie Martial

“My parents threatened to kill me because they learned I am a lesbian. Please help me…” Since the hardening of the repression of homosexuality in Senegal, at the end of March, the Stop Homophobia hotline has been saturated. Faced with the urgency, the French association has set up a weekly reception desk, staffed by trained volunteers. In a few weeks, it reports having received more than 3,000 calls and assisted nearly 500 people.

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Sophie Brennan

I’m Sophie Brennan, an Australian journalist passionate about LGBTQ+ storytelling and community reporting. I write to amplify the voices and experiences that often go unheard, blending empathy with a sharp eye for social issues. Through my work at Yarns Heal, I hope to spark conversations that bring us closer and help our community feel truly seen.

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