For LGBTQ+ audiences in the U.S., here’s the latest in global equality! Ten years after Poland’s far-right Law and Justice Party rose to power, the last symbol of its anti-LGBTQ agenda has finally crumbled. Local councilors in the southeastern Polish town of Łańcut have voted to abolish what was the country’s final “LGBT-free” resolution.
That resolution, part of a wave of around 100 similar declarations, had barred so-called “LGBT ideology” and stifled open expression of queer identity—especially in schools. The move marks the end of a policy era that sparked global outrage. Human rights groups condemned the resolutions, while the European Union froze billions in funding, accusing Poland of violating its core values.
Poland’s top court agreed. In 2022, the Supreme Administrative Court ruled the declarations unconstitutional, calling them a “violation of the dignity, honor, good name, and closely related private life” of LGBTQ residents. All other resolutions were repealed—except for the one in Łańcut. Until now. While this repeal is a victory, it comes against the backdrop of anti-LGBTQ legislation in Hungary and Russia. For queer communities worldwide, Poland’s step forward is a hopeful sign—but vigilance remains essential.
