Here we stand on Rue du Groupe-Manouchian. A name that echoes with bravery and sacrifice. This unassuming street in the 20th arrondissement holds a powerful history. It’s a history woven into the very fabric of its existence.
Rue du Groupe-Manouchian wasn’t always known by this name. It was formed in 1934 from three smaller impasses. Impasse Fleury Impasse du Progrès and another unnamed lane. It existed for years unnamed and unremarkable. But its future was anything but ordinary.
The street’s current name honors 23 Resistance fighters. They were members of the FTP-MOI a group led by the poet Missak Manouchian. These brave souls fought against the Nazi occupation of France. They were tried on February 17 1944. Four days later they were executed at Fort du Mont-Valérien.
The Nazis used their execution for a massive antisemitic propaganda campaign. They created the infamous L’Affiche rouge. This poster highlighted the diverse backgrounds of the resistance fighters. It included their names and nationalities. Many were Jewish or foreign-born. The Nazis hoped to stir up anti-foreign sentiment. They failed The poster instead galvanized support for the Resistance.
The renaming of this street was not immediate. There was debate and discussion. The initial proposal in 1951 was rejected. It took until October 28 1954 for the Paris city council to finally approve the new name. Louis Aragon a prominent poet and communist wrote a poem for the inauguration. This poem Strophes pour se souvenir was inspired by Missak Manouchian’s last letter to his wife Mélinée. Léo Ferré later set the poem to music creating the powerful song L’Affiche Rouge.
The official inauguration of Rue du Groupe-Manouchian took place on March 5 1955. In 1999 a commemorative plaque was added. It stands at number 49. This is a tribute to the group’s sacrifice and courage. In 2019 the lower part of the street was pedestrianized. A work of art depicting Missak and the other members of the group was installed nearby.
Rue du Groupe-Manouchian is more than just a street. It’s a living memorial. It’s a testament to the resilience and resistance of ordinary people who rose up against oppression. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering history. It stands as a tribute to the 23 brave souls who gave their lives for freedom. Never forget their sacrifice.