This measure is “in line with the approach of recognition and respect towards the victims”, specifies a press release from Emmaüs.
Abbé Pierre will “always be part of our history” but “it is becoming impossible to publicly honor his image”, notes the association. It also permanently closed the place of memory dedicated to the priest, in Esteville (Seine-Maritime).
In total, Abbé Pierre is targeted by 33 accusations of sexual violence. They were revealed in three different reports produced by the Egaé firm, commissioned by the Emmaüs movement and the Abbé Pierre Foundation to shed light on the priest’s actions. The first, published in July, caused a shock wave.
Created in 1949, Emmaüs is the oldest association founded on the initiative of Abbé Pierre, whose real name is Henri Grouès. He also created with relatives in 1987 the Abbé Pierre Foundation which fights against poor housing and also plans to change its name.
