On this December 1, 2024, as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the massacre of Senegalese riflemen in Thiaroye perpetrated by the French colonial army, it is essential to look at Léopold Sédar Senghor’s emblematic poem, “Tyaroye”, which bears witness to this tragedy and its repercussions.
It is essential to place this poem in its historical and political context. Written by Senghor in 1944 in Paris, following the massacre of African soldiers, this poem is part of the collection “Hosties noires”, dedicated to the Senegalese riflemen who died in combat. Senghor himself, a veteran and prisoner during the Second World War, felt a duty to remember these African soldiers, often forgotten and neglected in the commemoration of the war.
The poem “Tyaroye” embodies this desire to pay tribute to the Senegalese riflemen, by emphasizing their dual status as French and black prisoners. Senghor questions French society about the treatment reserved for these men, about their recognition as soldiers in their own right, despite the discrimination and injustices they faced.
Beyond its political dimension, “Tyaroye” also reveals Senghor’s poetic sensitivity. The collection “Hosties noires” explores the question of identity, collective memory and the quest for equality. Senghor’s verses resonate like songs of dignity and resistance, reminding the world of the importance of remembering the sacrifices of African soldiers for France.
By examining the poem “Tyaroye” in light of Senghor’s political career, we see a humanist and committed vision, advocating equality and justice for all. Through his poetry, Senghor was able to transcend borders and conflicts, to promote an ideal of universal brotherhood.
On this anniversary of the Thiaroye massacre, rereading Senghor’s poem is a duty of memory and reflection. By honouring the memory of the Senegalese riflemen, we do justice to their courage and sacrifice, while asking ourselves what lessons can be learned from this tragedy in order to build a more just and united world.