Our History

The Senegalese Association of Colorado(SAC) was founded in 1997 . A visionary in the
community, Samba Kane called for the first meeting that was held at his house . Among the
Senegalese who attended the first assembly was Omar Dia who unfortunately, a few months later
was murdered by skinheads in the street of Denver.
Despite the difficulties we encountered , through perseverance and resilience , the association was
officially recognized by the Colorado Secretary of State when on June 6, 1999 the following
members, Samba Ndiaye, Baidy Ly and Mansour Ba, drafted and signed the documents that created
what is now known as SAC.
Another historic moment was when the organization obtained its 501C3 status in 2011 due to the
extraordinary work and dedication of the members under the leadership of Khady Diop.
During the glorious years the association held many activities to celebrate the Senegalese
Independence in several prestigious places such as the Hyatt Regency hotel in downtown Denver, the
University of Denver , the organization of Black women leaders headquarter in downtown Denver,
just to name a few.
Because of the magnificent actions taken by the members of the organisation, the association
inspired many other African communities that started creating their own associations.
Today the Senegalese association seems to have slowed down but we should always remember
historic actions taken by the organisation in assisting members of the community.
● Bailing out our brothers and sisters who were detained by the authorities.
● Helping members who have experienced hardship because of sickness .
● Paying associates’ rents for several months .
In the past , our organization had had strong relations with officials such as the governor of
Colorado, the mayor of Denver and other authorities.
Today we believe that it is utmost important that all the brothers and sisters living in Colorado join
this prestigious and important association so we can lift it up again and create a community for the
well being of all Senegalese living in the Colorado State.