Torremolinos, a celebrated haven for the LGBTQ+ community, reaffirmed its commitment to equality and inclusion this week. The arrest of a club owner accused of homophobic practices underscores the town’s zero-tolerance approach to discrimination.
Mayor Margarita del Cid, a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, made it clear: “Discrimination has no place in Torremolinos.”
Club owner arrested for hate speech
The controversy began when a club owner in Torremolinos explicitly excluded gay individuals in promotional material for an upcoming event. This blatant act of discrimination prompted a swift response from local authorities.
Following an investigation initiated by the mayor and Andalucian authorities, the 38-year-old man, of Moroccan descent, was arrested on charges of inciting hatred. While released pending further legal action, he now faces deportation proceedings, subject to judicial approval.
The accused showed no remorse, openly making derogatory remarks and referring to homosexuality as a “disease.” Mayor Del Cid condemned the behaviour, emphasising the necessity of a firm response to such acts.
A legacy of openness and inclusion
Torremolinos has a long history of embracing sexual diversity. In the 1960s, it emerged as a refuge for gay individuals, artists, and free thinkers, offering an oasis of tolerance even under the repressive Franco regime.
Spain’s first gay bar, Tony’s, opened in Torremolinos and became a symbol of acceptance and freedom. Over the decades, the town attracted international celebrities, including John Lennon, and cemented its reputation as a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
A mayor’s firm stance
Mayor Margarita del Cid personally filed a police report against the club owner, using her platform to advocate for equal treatment. She praised the swift police response and the Junta de Andalucía’s decision to launch legal proceedings under regional anti-discrimination laws.
Her statement, “Today, homophobia loses; today, freedom wins,” reflects Torremolinos’ enduring commitment to human rights and social justice.
An LGBTQ+-friendly future
Today, Torremolinos hosts 15 to 20 LGBTQ+ events annually, further solidifying its status as an inclusive city. Despite narrowly missing the chance to host Europride 2027, the town continues to prioritise equality.
Pride events not only celebrate diversity but also bring significant economic benefits, reinforcing Torremolinos’ position as a leading tourist destination. The town’s proactive stance against discrimination serves as a model for other communities across Spain and Europe.
Freedom wins in Torremolinos
Torremolinos remains a beacon of inclusivity, rooted in its rich history of tolerance and diversity. With a clear message that hatred will not be tolerated, the town continues to champion a society where freedom triumphs over discrimination.