Here lies Lola Izraelski a young woman tragically cut down in her prime. This Lola Izraelski Plaque commemorates her life. It stands as a poignant reminder of the horrors of war. Specifically the Nazi occupation of France.
Lola Izraelski was born in Warsaw Poland on July 7 1920. Her family emigrated to France in the early 1920s. They settled in Paris. Her father Michel Izraelski was a tailor. He opened a women’s clothing shop. The family later moved to Lyon. They established a sewing workshop at 5 Place Croix-Paquet. Lola worked there.
In 1938 Lola’s father was publicly accused of fraud by the anti-Semitic politician Louis Darquier de Pellepoix. This highlights the pervasive anti-Semitism of the time. It was a prejudice that would ultimately lead to her death.
During World War II Lola joined the French Resistance. She used the alias Lucienne Imbert. This helped protect her identity. Her younger brother Charles also became a Resistance fighter. He was wounded in April 1944. He sought refuge with Lola.
On July 28 1944 tragedy struck. Gestapo officers raided their workshop. Charles attempted to escape. In the ensuing struggle Lola was shot and killed. She was only 24 years old. Charles managed to escape but was wounded.
The Lola Izraelski Plaque records her heroic death. The inscription reads “Here fell heroically on July 28 1944 at the age of 24 Miss Lola Izraelski Died for France.” This simple inscription speaks volumes. It remembers her bravery. It reminds us of the sacrifices made during wartime.
Lola Izraelski’s story is one of resilience and courage. It is a story of a family torn apart by war and anti-Semitism. Her sacrifice underscores the importance of remembering the victims of the Holocaust and the fight against oppression. Let us never forget Lola Izraelski. Let us honor her memory by fighting intolerance and prejudice in all forms.