Spanish City Honors Two Senegalese Migrants for Heroic Attempt to Save Victim of Homophobic Attack

Spanish City Honors Two Senegalese Migrants for Heroic Attempt to Save Victim of Homophobic Attack

The city of A Coruña, Spain, has officially recognized Ibrahima Diack and Magatte N’Diaye, two Senegalese migrants, for their bravery in attempting to save Samuel Luiz, a gay man who was brutally attacked by a homophobic mob in July 2021.

During a formal ceremony on Monday, the two men were granted the honorary title of “Adopted Sons of the City” in recognition of their selfless actions. Diack and N’Diaye were the only ones who intervened as Luiz was kicked and beaten outside a nightclub, an attack that ultimately led to his tragic death in hospital and sparked national outrage.

At the time, both men were undocumented migrants working irregular jobs, meaning they risked arrest and deportation by stepping in to help. Despite this, they chose to act, displaying what officials have described as "pure heroism."

"Thank you for your example in risking everything despite having a lot to lose," said Councillor Rosalía López during the ceremony.

Four men were later convicted for Luiz’s murder, receiving sentences ranging from 10 to 24 years.