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Abbé Pierre affair: in squares, schools or parks, a name that has become heavy to bear
Abbé Pierre affair: in squares, schools or parks, a name that has become heavy to bear
(France 2)
Public places bearing the name of Abbé Pierre, accused of sexual violence by 24 women, are upsetting many residents of the affected municipalities. In Lyon, the priest’s birthplace, some are campaigning to remove the fresco bearing his image. The Abbé Pierre Foundation is going to change its name.
Squares, schools, parks and statues that until now proudly bore the name of Abbé 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.
