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2mo ago

Senegalese Soldiers' Cemetery in France Vandalized, Macron Condemns Act as 'Shameful'

The historic Chasselay necropolis, honoring African soldiers who fought for France in World War II, was defaced with grave damage and graffiti referencing voodoo practices.

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Le Tata de Chasselay (Rhône), une nécropole dédiée aux tirailleurs sénégalais .

Overview

  • The Tata Senegalese cemetery in Chasselay, Rhône, which holds the remains of 196 African soldiers killed in World War II, was vandalized on January 29, 2025.
  • Dozens of grave plaques were damaged, and walls were defaced with graffiti referencing voodoo practices, according to local authorities.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the vandalism as a 'shame' and reaffirmed the nation's debt to the Senegalese soldiers who fought for France.
  • The Office of Veterans and Victims of War has filed a formal complaint, and an investigation has been launched by the gendarmerie.
  • Officials, including the Minister for Memory and Veterans, pledged swift restoration of the site and emphasized the importance of safeguarding historical memory.