The commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the massacre of African soldiers in Thiaroye in 1944 raises essential questions about history and collective memory. This tragic event, long hidden, is of paramount importance for understanding postcolonial issues and the struggles for recognition and justice.
We are faced with a painful historical reality, that of African soldiers who fought for France during the Second World War, and who were coldly killed by French troops when they were simply demanding fair treatment. This dark page of history bears witness to the colonial violence and persistent discrimination that marked relations between France and its former colonies.
The commemoration of this event allows us to pay tribute to these African soldiers who sacrificed their lives to defend an ideal of freedom and justice, while highlighting the injustices and violence of which they were victims. It is crucial to fully recognize their commitment and contribution to the defense of freedom, in a context marked by inequalities and racial discrimination.
By remembering these African soldiers who fell in Thiaroye in 1944, we question our relationship with History and memory, and we commit to fighting against forgetting and injustice. The recognition of these tragic events is essential to building a more just and equitable future, where the rights of everyone are respected, regardless of their origin or affiliation.
By commemorating the Thiaroye massacre, we express our solidarity with all victims of violence and oppression, and our commitment to building a more just and humane world. It is by recognizing the errors and crimes of the past that we can move towards a better future, based on solidarity, reconciliation and respect for the dignity of each person.
In memory of those African soldiers who fell at Thiaroye in 1944, let us commit to building a world where justice and peace will be the foundations of our societies, and where respect for human dignity will be the golden rule. Let us remember, commemorate, and commit to building a better future for all, inspired by the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom.