Actor Sambou Diaby was expelled from a central Bilbao bar after being mistaken for a 'mantero' street vendor due to his racial background, while with his partner. The establishment has issued sincere apologies, attributing it to a misunderstanding. Diaby voiced his deep humiliation and disappointment on social media.
Actor Sambou Diaby, known for his roles in the film and play 'Miñan' and the movie 'La isla de los faisanes', reported a discriminatory incident on social media at a central Bilbao bar. While having a drink with his partner, influencer Nahikari Núñez, a waiter approached and ordered Diaby to leave, assuming he was selling goods as a 'mantero'.
Diaby, who strongly identifies as Basque, stated: 'I represent Euskal Herria, I speak Basque almost since I was born, and I don't believe that just because I'm black they have the right to judge me or think I'm a mantero. I feel humiliated and disappointed.' He added: 'I work hard to represent that nowadays there are Basque speakers of my race and other races, only for someone to suddenly tell me not to sell anything while I'm having a drink with my girlfriend.'
His partner criticized the situation: 'It seems very serious to me, because in this case he is an actor, but I don't care if he were a street sweeper or a mantero. What happens, can't a mantero have a drink?'
The couple has not filed a police report but has submitted a complaint to Kontsumobide, the Basque government's consumer protection agency.
The bar's manager told eldiario.es/Euskadi it was a 'misunderstanding' and 'error of perception' by a waiter. In a social media statement, the establishment said: 'We want to express our sincerest apologies. This behavior does not reflect our values and we assume full responsibility. We have apologized directly to the affected person and are implementing mandatory measures for our entire team, as well as reviewing our service protocols. We reaffirm our commitment to dignified, respectful, and inclusive treatment for all people.'
