Senegal recently marked the 80th anniversary of the Thiaroye massacre, a dark chapter in its history during which French colonial forces killed dozens of Senegalese Tirailleurs (African soldiers) who had fought for France in World War II. The commemoration serves as both a somber reflection on the atrocities of colonial rule and a call for justice and recognition for those who paid the ultimate price for their service.
The Thiaroye Massacre
The massacre occurred on December 1, 1944, in the military camp of Thiaroye, near Dakar. The Senegalese Tirailleurs, who had been part of the Free French forces during World War II, had returned home after enduring years of combat and captivity. They sought rightful compensation for their service, including unpaid wages and pensions, which were often less than what their European counterparts received.
When the soldiers protested against the discriminatory treatment, French colonial authorities responded with lethal force. Official French records acknowledge 35 deaths, but many historians and local accounts suggest the death toll was far higher, with potentially over 300 lives lost. The massacre was swiftly covered up by the French authorities, leaving survivors and families of the deceased without justice for decades.
Commemorating the Fallen
The 80th anniversary was marked by solemn ceremonies in Senegal, including wreath-laying events, public gatherings, and cultural performances. President Macky Sall, alongside local leaders and historians, emphasized the importance of preserving the memory of the Thiaroye massacre as a symbol of resistance to colonial injustice. The events also highlighted the sacrifices made by African soldiers in global conflicts, whose contributions have often been overlooked.
Many participants used the occasion to renew calls for France to fully acknowledge its responsibility and provide reparations to the families of the victims. In 2020, French President Emmanuel Macron had acknowledged the massacre as an “indelible stain” on France’s history, but activists and scholars argue that more tangible actions, such as financial reparations and the opening of classified archives, are needed.
A Legacy of Resilience
The Thiaroye massacre remains a powerful symbol of the broader struggles faced by African nations under colonial rule. For Senegal, commemorating this tragedy is not only a way to honor the fallen but also a reminder of the enduring need for justice and equality. The anniversary serves as a call to remember the past while striving for a more equitable future, where the sacrifices of all who fought for freedom are fully recognized.
