(ZENIT News / Paris, 07.18.2024).- On July 17, the Emaús Movement disclosed that multiple women have come forward accusing Abbé Pierre (1912-2007), one of France’s most revered figures, of sexual abuse, including allegations from a minor at the time of the incidents. This revelation has sent shockwaves through France, tarnishing the legacy of a man celebrated for his resistance against the Nazis and his extensive humanitarian work.
The accusations emerged in 2023 when Emaús France received a report from a woman alleging sexual assault by Abbé Pierre. Following this, Emaús launched an internal review in collaboration with Emaús International and the Abbé Pierre Foundation to uncover other potential cases. Caroline De Haas, from the Egaé group specializing in gender equality and violence prevention, led the investigation.
Over the initial months of this year, testimonies from seven women, detailing incidents of assault or harassment between 1970 and 2005, were collected. The report also hints that at least four additional individuals may have experienced similar abuses but have not yet come forward.
Emaús has responded to these grave accusations by setting up a confidential system to receive further testimonies and provide support to victims. The collected accounts reveal recurring patterns of abuse, often dismissed due to Abbé Pierre’s esteemed status. The victims describe a stark contrast between his public persona and private actions, which left them in disbelief and grappling with the reality of their experiences.
The Egaé report highlights how Abbé Pierre’s age and status created a power dynamic that fostered an environment where victims found it challenging to recognize and report the abuse. During his later years, Abbé Pierre admitted in an interview to having committed «sins of the flesh,» though he did not explicitly acknowledge the abuses now being reported. This admission, coupled with his controversial views on celibacy and same-sex unions, adds layers of complexity to his legacy.
These revelations have deeply shaken the Emaús Movement, leading to a reevaluation of Abbé Pierre’s legacy and challenging the integrity of a figure once idolized for his social commitment. The French bishops have expressed their sorrow over the disturbing news.
In a related political context, the Emaús Movement had previously called for votes against Le Pen’s far-right party during the French elections, underscoring their stand against extremism.
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