Spanish City Honors Migrants for Heroic Act in Homophobic Attack

A Coruña City Hall has recognized two Senegalese migrants, Magatte N'Diaye and Ibrahima Diack, for their heroism during a tragic incident involving a homophobic attack that led to the murder of a gay man in July 2021. The city awarded them the title of "adopted sons" during a ceremony that highlighted their bravery in the face of imminent danger.

On that unfortunate night, 24-year-old Samuel Luiz was assaulted outside a nightclub by a group of men, ultimately succumbing to his injuries in the hospital, an event that incited nationwide outrage across Spain. The two men stood out as the only individuals who intervened to save him, risking considerable personal safety despite their vulnerable status as undocumented migrants.

At a ceremony on Monday, Mayor Inés Rey applauded their actions as "pure heroism" and reflected on the implications of their bravery, emphasizing the disturbing reality that only those who had the most to lose chose to intervene. "We are not heroes, we did what we had to do," remarked N'Diaye, while Diack emphasized the values of respect and education passed down to him from his family.

Both men played vital roles as witnesses during the trial of Luiz’s killers, which took place in November. Four men received varying sentences ranging from 10 to 24 years for their involvement in the murder, with the main assailant’s actions being marked by homophobic slurs.

Their story sheds light on the broader issues surrounding migration and societal values in Spain, where tens of thousands of individuals risk dangerous sea crossings seeking asylum and better lives.