Arnsberg to Rename Street Honoring Archbishop Linked to Abuse Cover-Up
A street in Arnsberg named after the late Archbishop Lorenz Jaeger is set to be renamed following revelations about his role in covering up abuse cases. Both the SPD and CDU in the city are pushing for the change, with a public meeting planned for April 20 to gather resident input. The move comes as other towns in North Rhine-Westphalia also reconsider honours linked to Jaeger. Kardinal-Jaeger-Straße in Arnsberg's Neheim district currently bears the name of Lorenz Jaeger, who led the Archdiocese of Paderborn from 1941 to 1973. A recent abuse study found that Jaeger and his successor concealed cases of abuse within the diocese. The SPD's proposal specifically cites documented misconduct tied to him.
A public meeting on April 20 will allow residents to suggest new names for the street. Local SPD and CDU branches are working together on the initiative, signalling broad political support. In Paderborn, the mayor is preparing to submit renaming proposals for its own Kardinal-Jaeger-Straße to political committees. So far, no other streets or squares named after Jaeger in North Rhine-Westphalia are reported to be under review. Meanwhile, Olpe has already renamed its Catholic youth centre, removing Jaeger's name in 2023. Similar discussions are taking place in Werl and Wenden, where streets honouring Jaeger may also be renamed. However, residents there face complex bureaucratic procedures if the changes go ahead.
The renaming process in Arnsberg will involve local residents in selecting a new street name. If approved, the change will reflect growing scrutiny of Jaeger's legacy in light of the abuse study. Other towns with streets named after him may follow suit, though procedural challenges remain.
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