Several public places are considering changing their names

Squares, schools, parks or statues which until now proudly bore the name of theAbbot Pierre are now being singled out. This is particularly the case in Irigny, in the Rhône, where he grew up. “I have a hard time walking past this fresco, seeing that there are meetings that are made for the town hall on Place Abbé Pierre… Obviously, it’s disturbing. I don’t want to show that to my children, in any case.”confides a passerby.

Several places and monuments could be renamed in the town, while the priest is the target of dozens of accusations of sexual violence. The issue should be addressed at the next city council. The same quarrel arises a few kilometers further, in his hometown of Lyon (Rhône). In front of the fresco bearing his image, many residents say they feel uneasy. “(These accusations) completely taint everything he has done and for me, yes, it should be removed.”says one man. The leaders of the foundation that bears the abbot’s name have also decided to change its name.