Isn’t it remarkable how a simple street can echo the life of a man? We’re standing at Allée Jacques Laloë. It is named after a man who dedicated his life to the people of this region.
Jacques Laloë was born in Paris in 1930. His family had Breton roots. They sought work in the Paris area. His grandfather was a baker. His grandmother worked as a concierge. Laloë’s mother worked in a rubber factory. Sadly, she contracted tuberculosis there. His father was a fitter. He worked at Renault and Gnome et Rhône factories.
As a child, Jacques Laloë battled bone tuberculosis. He spent over two years in a hospital. Despite these challenges, he excelled in school. His father joined the Resistance. He also joined the Communist Party.
In 1947, Jacques Laloë joined the Union of Republican Youth of France. He was a delegate for apprentices. He initiated the “André Huard” circle within SNECMA. He also joined the CGT and the Communist Party. Laloë worked as a metal turner. He was later “locked out” of the factory.
In 1953, Jacques Laloë became the youngest elected municipal councillor in France. He was only 23. He was responsible for youth and sports. In 1954, he became a permanent member of the Communist Party. He was arrested for organizing a peace rally. He became secretary of the Union of Communist Youth of France.
In 1965, Jacques Laloë became the mayor of Ivry-sur-Seine. He succeeded Georges Marrane. He served as mayor until 1998. He also served as a general councillor. He was president of the HLM office.
Jacques Laloë was passionate about fishing. He received a medal for his work. This was in defense of water and aquatic life. In 1998, he was appointed Knight of the Legion of Honor.
Jacques Laloë passed away in 2020. He left behind a legacy of dedication. He devoted his life to his community. This Allée Jacques Laloë stands as a reminder. It is a reminder of his commitment. It’s a reminder of his service. He was a man of the people.