The project responds to the problem of growing homophobia in Poland. In recent years, there has been a growing oppression of LGBTQ people in Poland, manifested by hate campaigns by far-right-wing organisations, the establishment of so-called ‘LGBT-free zones’ by local authorities, hostility of the authorities towards anti-discrimination and sex education in schools, hateful statements by politicians in the media, or the demonstrative detention of an LGBTQ activist. The political and media hate campaign has the effect of increasing public fear and resentment towards LGBTQ people, and thus the wellbeing of LGBTQ people who experience homophobia in schools, at work, at home, in public places. 25% of gay and lesbians report frequent contact with hate speech and 70% of LGBTQ youth have suicidal thoughts (KPH, 2016). On the other hand, there is a positive trend of increasing social activism among young people. This is evidenced, for example, by the increasing attendance at equality marches and the involvement of young people in LGBTQ activism.

As part of the project, the Projecy Promoter conducted a series of trainings for 12 local leaders preparing them for anti-discrimination, direct action and advocacy. Those participating in the programme created a local activist network. They organised 19 anti-discrimination events in their communities (in places such as Opole, Kalisz, Legnica, Gorzów, Wrocław, Lubin, Zielona Góra, Milicz) and jointly developed and carried out a local social campaign in public space and on the Internet called #TyMówiszJaCzuję. The Project Promoter also participated in a study visit to a Norwegian Partner, where discussions included an action plan for LGBTQ people in Oslo and the ‘Pink competency’ education programme. The project also benefited from the Partner’s experience in areas such as building strategies for cooperation with local authorities or network management.

The project served to strengthen and develop local leaders, organisations and informal groups working for human rights, mainly LGBTQ people in Lower Silesia. It has succeeded in creating a local network which, by exchanging experiences and supporting each other, is stronger, more visible and more effective in its activities. Thanks to local equality events and a social campaign, awareness of the situation and needs of LGBTQ people has been raised, especially on the topic of inclusive language and the recognition of trans and non-binary names and pronouns.