Senegal's Biram Senghor demands France apologize for WWII massacre
- In 1944, French forces opened fire on Senegalese soldiers protesting in Thiaroye over unpaid wages.
- The massacre, which resulted in the deaths of at least 35 soldiers, has been largely unacknowledged historically.
- Biram Senghor calls for an apology and reparations from France for the injustices faced by his father and other victims.
In Senegal, the memories of the horrific Thiaroye massacre in 1944 continue to haunt the descendants of victims. The massacre occurred in the military camp of Thiaroye when Senegalese soldiers, who had fought for France during World War II, protested for back pay and fair treatment. French forces responded with gunfire against the soldiers, killing at least 35, though historians believe the actual toll was significantly higher. Among those killed was M’Bap Senghor, the father of Biram Senghor, who has been fighting for recognition and justice for decades. The French government has slowly acknowledged this dark chapter of history; however, many families, including Biram’s, are still waiting for reparations and apologies. Biram Senghor argues not only for financial compensation but also for the recognition of those slain as martyrs. He recounted the decades of unanswered pleas to French authorities, including interactions during the 1970s to seek support from Senegal's then president, Leopold Sedar Senghor. Despite a partial recognition from French authorities, the family's quest for acknowledgment of their suffering continues unabated, fueled by the historical injustices they endured and the lack of closure for many families affected by this tragedy. The failure of France to provide full documentation or compensation for the victims further deepens the sense of betrayal felt by many Senegalese.