The Vilnius District Council recently voted on a proposal to change street names named after Cardinal H. Gulbinowicz, who was sanctioned by the Vatican for sexual abuse of minors. The proposal was brought forward by council member Daniel Ilkevič, suggesting that streets be renamed to Buivydžių and Gabrielio Jano Mincevičiaus street. However, the council ultimately decided against considering the proposal, with 10 votes in favor of change, 3 against, and 15 abstentions. This decision reflects a divide among council members regarding the legacy of individuals with controversial pasts.

Cardinal H. Gulbinowicz has been in the spotlight since being punished by the Vatican in 2020 for his conduct involving minors and for covering up other clergy members' acts of pedophilia. Despite these serious allegations and the revocation of his honorary titles in Poland, he remains honored in Vilnius District, indicating a complex and perhaps contentious relationship with historical figures linked to the Catholic Church. This suggests that local sentiments may still hold value in preserving certain legacies despite modern societal standards and expectations regarding accountability.

This decision may have implications for how public spaces and figures are honored in Lithuania going forward, particularly in the context of increasing calls for accountability within the church and other institutions regarding past abuses. The reluctance to rename streets could signal a broader societal challenge in reconciling historical legacies with current moral standards, raising questions about what values communities wish to uphold and how they reflect on emerging societal norms regarding justice and morality.