The Symbolism Behind the Image
The images show Lue & Rue, a same-sex couple, standing hand-in-hand and wrapped in a rainbow flag at Black Star Square, also known as Independence Square—one of Ghana’s most cherished symbols of national freedom. Their gesture is part of a campaign they call #ShowGhanaLove, which they describe as a peaceful stand in support of LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana.
Posting the images on Instagram, the couple wrote:
“All we’re here to do is #ShowGhanaLove. Never in our lives did we think we’d find ourselves in Ghana, doing something so simple and yet so defiant.”
Their message quickly gained traction, with thousands reacting, sharing, and commenting across social platforms.
A Defiant Act Amid Controversial Legislation
This public display of affection and identity comes at a sensitive time. Ghana’s Parliament is currently considering the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, a controversial piece of legislation that proposes prison sentences for individuals identifying as queer or those offering any form of support to the LGBTQIA+ community.
If passed, the bill could impose up to three years in prison for identifying as LGBTQ+ and five years for allies and supporters.
The couple’s post addressed this context directly:
“Coming out was already hard. Some of our family struggled to accept us. But imagine knowing that simply being who you are could land you in jail. Not for harming anyone—but for loving someone.”
Love as Resistance
By staging their photo at the very site that marks Ghana’s liberation from colonialism, Lue & Rue have drawn a stark contrast between historical freedom and modern-day repression.
“We’re confronting the erasure and criminalisation of queer people by love-bombing Ghana’s iconic landmarks of freedom,” they wrote, highlighting visits to other symbolic sites including the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and Aburi Botanical Gardens.
Reactions: Applause and Backlash
Online reactions have been sharply divided. Some commend the couple’s bravery and the gentle, loving tone of their message. Others, however, argue that the act disrespects Ghanaian culture and values, citing religious and legal objections.
The ongoing debate around the anti-LGBTQIA+ bill has attracted the attention of global human rights organizations, which have urged Ghana to reconsider the legislation. Despite international pressure, the bill retains strong support among local political leaders.
