In a powerful act of recognition, the Spanish city of A Coruña has officially honored Ibrahima Diack and Magatte N'Diaye, two undocumented Senegalese migrants who risked everything to save Samuel Luiz, a gay man brutally attacked by a homophobic mob in July 2021.
While others stood by, these two men intervened, attempting to stop the assault that ultimately took Luiz’s life. Their actions were pure altruism, as noted by Mayor Inés Rey, who declared them "sons of the city." Despite the risk of arrest or deportation due to their undocumented status, they acted without hesitation, later stating, "We are not heroes; we did what we had to do."
Their bravery not only attempted to save Luiz but also played a crucial role in justice being served—four men were convicted, receiving sentences between 10 and 24 years. The court confirmed the attack was homophobic.
Though the tragedy remains heartbreaking, A Coruña’s recognition of these two men is a reminder that courage and kindness still shine through, even in the darkest moments.
