Foundation to change name after new accusations

“We are now faced with the unbearable pain he has caused. Our decisions are therefore imperative.” The words of the press release published on the Abbé Pierre Foundation website on Friday, September 6 are strong. As is the decision announced: the foundation will change its name. The procedure was initiated after receiving seventeen new testimonies of sexual violence allegedly committed by the Abbé.

24 testimonies made public

The latter were collected by the listening cell set up by the Egaé group after the announcement of seven initial testimonies made public on July 7. These women reported behavior that could be described as assault or sexual harassment.

The foundation continued the press release by explaining that these decisions are necessary to respect “the victims who have spoken out, but also for the volunteers, employees, companions of the Movement, supporters and donors, whose daily action, so precious and necessary, would be tainted by a deep malaise if nothing changed.”

In the same document, the foundation recalls the legacy of the man who embodied the symbol of the fight against poverty and poor housing. It also reiterates its full support for the victims.