News (World)

Thousands of LGBT rights supporters march through Warsaw in annual ‘Equality Parade’

Thousands of activists have marched in scorching weather in Warsaw's 15th yearly "Equality Parade" on Saturday, confirming a growing public support for LGBT rights.
By
Thousands of LGBT rights supporters march through Warsaw in annual ‘Equality Parade’
Marchers carry a multicolor flag during the annual gay pride parade in Warsaw, Poland, Saturday, June 13, 2015. Gay rights activists held their 15th yearly
Marchers carry a multicolor flag during the annual gay pride parade in Warsaw, Poland, Saturday, June 13, 2015. Gay rights activists held their 15th yearly “Equality Parade” as Poland slowly grows more accepting of gays and lesbians, but where gay marriage, and even legal partnerships, still appear to be a far-off dream. This year’s parade comes amid a right-wing political shift, a possible setback for the LGBT community.
Alik Keplicz, AP
Marchers on a platform drive past a controversial art installation
Marchers on a platform drive past a controversial art installation “The Rainbow” during the annual gay pride parade in Warsaw, Poland, Saturday, June 13, 2015. Alik Keplicz, AP

WARSAW, Poland — Thousands of activists have marched in scorching weather in Warsaw’s 15th yearly “Equality Parade,” confirming a growing public support for gay rights.

The participants chanted in support of same-sex marriage and the right for same-sex couples to adopt children. Carrying a huge rainbow-colored flag, they marched from the Parliament building, through the downtown Savior Square, where a giant rainbow stands.

The artwork has been repeatedly burnt by right-wing groups and is to be moved next year to another location.

A participant waves a rainbow flag in front of a controversial art installation
A participant waves a rainbow flag in front of a controversial art installation “The Rainbow” during the annual gay pride parade in Warsaw, Poland, Saturday, June 13, 2015. Alik Keplicz, AP

Small groups of gay rights opponents chanted hostile rhymes, but there was no violence.

Recent proposals by left-wing lawmakers to debate regulations that would allow for same-sex marriage have been rejected in Parliament. Poland has no rights for same-sex couples, but the awareness of the need for them is growing.

© 2015, Associated Press, All Rights Reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Don't forget to share:

Discover more

Pride is the spirit that bolsters LGBTQ rights movements throughout the world.


News (World)
Poland Warsaw

Support vital LGBTQ+ journalism

Reader contributions help keep LGBTQ Nation free, so that queer people get the news they need, with stories that mainstream media often leaves out. Can you contribute today?

Once Monthly Annually

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated

Crowd gathers in Honolulu to celebrate Jim Nabors’ 85th birthday

Previous article

Michael Sam leaves CFL camp for personal reasons

Next article

More in LGBTQ Pride