Dear Community,
As an American expat and U.S. citizen, I moved to Belgium and married my Belgian spouse on February 24, 2014. Speaking as a gay man who is legally married to my male spouse, one of the things I love most about living in Belgium is the sense of safety and general acceptance I’ve always felt within its culture and I’ve taken for granted. I’ve always found this attitude to be prevalent here and throughout much of the European Union, especially in Western Europe. But let’s be honest and real: there are still people in every part of the world who do not accept the LGBTQ+ community, and we still have a great deal of work ahead of us when it comes to human rights and treating gay people equally.
It is with a heavy heart that we address the tragic events that unfolded during the Pride Celebration in Berlin on July 25, 2026. What was meant to be a joyful, affirming gathering of hundreds of thousands celebrating love, identity, and equality was violently disrupted by an attack that has shaken the LGBTQ+ community across Europe and beyond.
Shortly before 10 p.m., a van was driven into crowds in Tiergarten park near the Brandenburg Gate, striking participants of the Christopher Street Day parade. The vehicle caused devastating injuries before crashing into a tree, after which the attacker assaulted bystanders with a machete. One woman lost her life, and at least 29 others were injured—some critically.
The suspect, identified as 21 year old Abdul Ballout, fled the scene, prompting a city wide manhunt. He was fatally shot by police the following day after confronting officers with a weapon. Authorities have stated that the attack is being treated as a likely act of Islamist terrorism.
In the aftermath, Berlin’s government and LGBTQ+ leaders have expressed profound grief, outrage, and solidarity. Vigils were held across the city, with thousands gathering in Pariser Platz to honor the victims and reaffirm the community’s resilience. German officials have pledged to strengthen security measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As we reflect on this heartbreaking moment, we stand united with Berlin’s LGBTQ+ community and all those affected. Pride is built on courage, resistance, and love—and those values remain unshaken. We will continue to celebrate who we are, support one another, and work toward a world where every person can live openly and safely.
In the end, Love will always win,
LW/ Michael