Henri Curiel Plaque

Curiel, a name whispered in the shadows of revolution. Here at the Henri Curiel Plaque in Paris, we remember a life extinguished too soon, a life devoted to fighting injustice. Henri Curiel, born in Cairo in 1914 to a privileged Jewish family, found his calling not in the world of banking, as his father intended, but in the fight for social justice and against colonial rule. The Henri Curiel Plaque marks not only the location of his assassination but also serves as a stark reminder of the silenced voices fighting for a better world. He founded the Egyptian Movement for National Liberation, a communist organization challenging the status quo. His activism led to his expulsion from Egypt in 1950, forcing him to relocate to France. The Henri Curiel Plaque in Paris reminds us of the global reach of his struggle. In France, Curiel continued his activism, becoming a key figure in the “porteurs de valises” network. This network supported the Algerian National Liberation Front (FLN) during the Algerian War of Independence. Curiel’s dedication and organizational skills were essential to the network’s operations. After Algeria gained independence, Curiel founded Solidarité. This organization provided training and support to national liberation movements worldwide. He aided groups like the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa and movements opposing military dictatorships in Latin America, Greece, Spain, and Portugal. The Henri Curiel Plaque stands as a testament to his tireless internationalism. Curiel’s commitment to peace extended to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He facilitated secret meetings between activists and political leaders from both sides, striving for a peaceful resolution. This work, alongside his other activism, made him a target. On May 4, 1978, right here where the Henri Curiel Plaque now stands, he was assassinated. The Henri Curiel Plaque in Paris reminds us that the pursuit of justice is often met with violence. While different groups claimed responsibility, the true perpetrators and their motives remain shrouded in mystery, a chilling example of a political crime unresolved. The plaque is more than just a marker. It’s a call to remember Curiel’s legacy and to continue the fight against oppression and injustice wherever it exists.