In a poignant ceremony on Monday, the Spanish city of A Coruña honored two Senegalese migrants, Ibrahima Diack and Magatte N’Diaye, for their courageous actions in attempting to save Samuel Luiz, a gay man who was brutally beaten to death by a homophobic mob in July 2021. The two men, the only bystanders to intervene during the attack, were given the honorary title of “Adopted Sons of the City” by Mayor Inés Rey for their bravery.
Luiz, a 24-year-old man, was set upon outside a nightclub by a group of men who kicked and punched him in a violent homophobic attack. Despite the presence of other bystanders, Diack and N’Diaye were the only ones who risked their safety to try to stop the assault. Luiz later died from his injuries in the hospital, a tragic event that sparked national outrage and calls for justice.
The migrants’ actions were praised as “pure altruism” by the mayor, who acknowledged the significance of their bravery, especially given the risks they faced as undocumented workers in Spain. Diack and N’Diaye had been living in the city without legal papers and were working irregular jobs at the time, which put them at risk of deportation if they had encountered the authorities.
During the ceremony, Diack expressed that they were not heroes, but simply did what they felt was right in the moment. “We did what we had to do,” he said. Both men were presented with plaques recognizing their status as “Adopted Sons of A Coruña,” a gesture that acknowledges their selflessness and moral courage.
The two migrants were also key witnesses in the trial of Luiz’s killers, which concluded in November 2023. Four men were convicted of the murder, with sentences ranging from 10 to 24 years. The court found that the main defendant, who received a 24-year sentence, had made homophobic slurs during the attack.
The incident underscores the challenges faced by migrants in Spain, where tens of thousands cross the Atlantic each year, many from countries like Senegal, Mali, and Morocco. While the country continues to grapple with issues of migration and integration, the actions of Diack and N’Diaye serve as a powerful reminder of the potential for compassion and humanity, even in the face of personal risk.
In a social media post, city councillor Rosalía López also praised the two men’s bravery, stating, “Thank you for your example in risking everything despite having a lot to lose.”
The ceremony and the recognition of Diack and N’Diaye’s actions highlight not only the importance of protecting human rights but also the significant role that migrants can play in their communities, even when faced with adversity.
