A tribute to memory, equality and politics that transform lives
Twenty years can seem like a lot… or very little, depending on how you look at it. In 2005, Spain became the third country in the world to approve same-sex marriage. Today, two decades later, that historic step is once again valued with symbolic and powerful recognition.
COGAM, has announced the first winner of the XXXV edition of the Triángulo Awards: José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, former president of the Government, will be honored with the Pink Triangle, the highest recognition granted by the organization. The reason? His key role in the approval of equal marriage, a law that forever changed the lives—and rights—of thousands of people.
Why this award now?
Because it’s not just about looking back and applauding past achievements. As Ronny de la Cruz, president of COGAM, states, “the recognition of Zapatero is not only an act of memory, but also a vindication and gratitude for the value of politics that transforms and expands rights”. Words that invite us to remember that rights do not fall from the sky; They are conquered, legislated, and also defended day by day.
With this edition, COGAM commemorates two decades since the reform of the Civil Code, an initiative promoted by Zapatero and supported by social movements such as COGAM itself, which placed Spain at the forefront of progress in LGTBIQ+ rights globally.
A history of activism and visibility
The Pink Triangle is not just any award. It is a symbol of fight, memory and pride. In previous editions it has been given to figures such as Pedro Zerolo, Carla Antonelli or Amnesty International. Names that have not only made history, but have embodied the resistance and hope of a group that continues to face discrimination on many fronts.
The award ceremony will be held on May 30 at Espacio Larra, in the heart of Madrid. Like every year, it will be a night to raise your voice, make realities visible and, yes, also celebrate. Because celebrating is resisting.
Is everything cause for celebration?
Now, is it possible to talk only about achievements without stopping to think about what is still missing? Although the award recognizes a fundamental achievement, not all the path has been straight or free of shadows. Some people criticize that these tributes to political figures can make the role of grassroots activism invisible. To what extent are political decisions individual merit or a reflection of unavoidable social pressure? Is there a risk of institutionalizing memory and depoliticizing current struggles? They are open questions that, perhaps, do not have a single answer.
Learn more about COGAM
Founded in 1986, COGAM is a leading organization in the defense of the human rights of the LGTBIQ+ community. Their work ranges from diversity education in schools to support for people with HIV, including international cooperation and political intervention. In addition, it has promoted the Triángulo Awards since 1990, an annual event that recognizes those who have made a real difference in the life of the group.
Among the winners from previous years are names such as Irene Montero, Paco Tomás or Sandra Barneda. Diversity of profiles, a common cause: the visibility and dignity of all people, no matter who they love or how they identify.
