A Coruña's city hall has formally recognized Senegalese migrants Ibrahima Diack and Magatte N'Diaye as "adopted sons" for their courageous efforts in combating a violent homophobic attack, sparking national reflections on societal values regarding heroism and inclusivity.
A Coruña Honors Migrants for Heroism in Fighting Homophobia
A Coruña Honors Migrants for Heroism in Fighting Homophobia
Two Senegalese migrants receive prestigious recognition for their brave intervention in a homophobic attack, highlighting the importance of solidarity against hate.
In a heartfelt ceremony on Monday, A Coruña City Hall celebrated two Senegalese migrants, Ibrahima Diack and Magatte N'Diaye, by honoring them as "adopted sons of the city" for their valiant action in a homophobic attack that resulted in a tragic death. In July 2021, the men were the only witnesses who intervened when Samuel Luiz, a 24-year-old gay man, was brutally assaulted outside a nightclub in the north-western Spanish city. Luiz succumbed to his injuries days later, igniting a wave of national outrage and calls for justice.
During the ceremony, Mayor Inés Rey praised their courage, stating that their willingness to intervene amidst a crowd of bystanders who merely recorded the attack was a poignant commentary on societal values and individual responsibility. "That two undocumented migrants were the only ones who physically risked themselves to help the victim of a pack thirsting for horror leaves much food for thought," Mayor Rey remarked.
Both men, who were living without legal status in Spain and working in precarious conditions, reflected on their actions, insisting they simply did what felt right. “We are not heroes, we did what we had to do," stated Mr. N'Diaye, with Mr. Diack acknowledging the valuable life lessons instilled by his family despite their economic struggles.
The two also played a crucial role as witnesses in the trial against Luiz's attackers, resulting in sentences for the four convicted men ranging from 10 to 24 years in prison. These developments add a layer of complexity to the ongoing dialogue about migration, acceptance, and the fight against homophobia in Spain, shedding light on how acts of bravery can emerge from the most unexpected circumstances. As the country continues to grapple with issues surrounding migration and hate crimes, the story of Diack and N'Diaye serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of individual action in the face of intolerance.
