According to a report on the Situation of LGBTA people in Poland (Anti-Homophobia Campaign 2015-2016), the Opolskie voivodship has the second highest rate of homophobic and transphobic-related discrimination in Poland. The percentage of people who experience discrimination increases the further the distance from large cities. We are the only organization in the Opolski region that supports and integrates the LGBT+ community. We realize that we need to expand our work beyond Opole.

The objective of this project is to learn the situation of the LGBT+ community in the Opolskie voivodship and activate leaders in smaller towns.

We will conduct a study on the situation of LGBT+ people in the Opolskie voivodship, and publish a report including recommendations for local government authorities and public institutions. We will organize, in six towns, events for the LGBT+ community, combined with promotion of the report and of participation in the LGBT+ Young Leaders Academy. We will train young leaders in management, advocacy, community building, and grassroots measures. They will be able to meet LGBT+ activist leaders from Poland and share know-how for similar measures with the Norwegian partner during a study visit. We will provide mentor guidance and psychological support. Each person will organize an event to involve the community in their town. We will jointly prepare a social campaign to empower young LGBT+ people and encourage them to become socially involved.

80 young LGBT+ people from the Opolskie voivodship will participate in the activities. A report will be produced on the situation of LGBT+ people in the Opolski region, and twelve young people will improve their knowledge and skills, create a network, and take joint measures to help LGBT+ people in the region.

FRI – Foreningen for kjønns- og seksualitetsmangfold will share its know-how with respect to advocacy measures and fighting hate and institutional violence.