Artist and influencer Divine speaks out after a brutal homophobic attack in Madrid
An incident in Madrid this weekend raised alarm about violence against LGBTQ+ individuals when the artist and influencer known as Divine spoke out after sustaining serious injuries requiring medical care and surgical intervention.
According to the performer on social media, the assault involved a punch that damaged the eye socket, nose in several places, and cheekbone. The artist described regaining consciousness and needing to realign the nose before contacting emergency services. There was concern about facial sensation and the hope that feeling would return to the right side of the face, as described in the post.
The artist was taken into the operating room the following day to repair facial bones. Divine stated that the attack was a targeted act of hate and condemned it as a hate crime. The message emphasized the stark reality that hate can strike anyone at any moment, countering the common belief that such violence happens only to others.
Divine used the platform to condemn the discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ communities and called for accountability through legal channels. The statement underscored a personal resolve to pursue justice and to safeguard loved ones, even as fear is acknowledged. The artist expressed a commitment to resilience and to continuing advocacy despite the danger and emotional strain that follows such violence.
The message also carried a broader appeal for solidarity. Divine urged listeners to be united without becoming a mere label, stressing that the fight against homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia, and hate must be a collective, sustained effort. The public appeal highlighted the presence of this issue across political and cultural spaces, including in legislatures and media, while asserting that courage should not waver in the face of intimidation.
The appeal concluded with a forward-looking commitment: to raise awareness within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond that hate on the streets must be eradicated. Divine expressed gratitude toward supporters and reaffirmed a pledge to stand with all people who identify as part of the community, both now and in the future. The overarching message was one of resilience, accountability, and the belief that every individual deserves safety and dignity.