In Poland, the publication of a directory of LGBT-friendly schools by activist Dominik Kuc’s LGBTQplusME project has sparked controversy and drawn the attention of right-wing activists. This development comes amidst an ongoing debate surrounding LGBT rights in the predominantly Catholic country, where the ruling Law and Justice party has firmly opposed what they refer to as “LGBT ideology” in the lead-up to this year’s elections.
The LGBTQplusME project, which aims to assist individuals in finding “safe, open, and tolerant” places to study, released an online ranking of schools on May 10, based on their perceived level of LGBTQ-friendliness. However, the initiative quickly drew criticism when the parliament-appointed Children’s Rights Ombudsman, Mikolaj Pawlak, announced plans to inspect these schools and assess how their friendliness towards the LGBTQ community is manifested.
Concerns have been raised by activists and supporters of the project, who argue that such inspections could have detrimental effects on the psychological well-being of young people. Activist Dominik Kuc expressed worry over the Ombudsman’s actions, stating that schools are now being intimidated in the midst of this political battle, with children inadvertently becoming hostages in the process.
The issue of LGBT education in schools has long been a contentious topic, with religious conservatives claiming that teaching about LGBT issues is inappropriate and seeks to sexualize children. This viewpoint, however, is strongly rejected by activists and non-governmental organizations advocating for LGBT rights. Opposition lawmaker Marta Golbik voiced her disapproval of the planned inspections, suggesting that if the Ombudsman is keen on inspecting friendly institutions, perhaps hospitals and child-friendly playgrounds should also be subject to such scrutiny.
The tension surrounding the inspections and the larger debate on LGBT rights in Poland continues to highlight the deep divisions within the country. As activists and supporters fight for the rights and well-being of young people, the outcome of this clash will undoubtedly shape the educational landscape and the broader acceptance of the LGBTQ community in Poland.