Warsaw’s mayor Rafal Trzaskowski highlighted the importance of tolerance during the Equality March on Saturday. He emphasised that a smile is a symbol of tolerance, and that it signifies a happy, open, and European society. The mayor urged the LGBT+ community in Warsaw to feel safe and support those marginalised by populist authorities. He thanked the organisers of the parade and Anne Hidalgo, the mayor of Paris, for their support. The pact of Free Cities, founded by the Visegrad Four capitals, is a global network of cities fighting against nationalistic populism.
The mayor emphasised that diversity, tolerance, and equal rights for everyone guarantee the establishment of an open and smiling society. He criticised those who destroy Polish education, contribute to inflation, and oppose diversity. The parade, titled „We stand for equality and beauty,” began at 2 p.m. and aimed to demonstrate solidarity and mutual support.
„The entire LGBT+ community in Warsaw will always feel safe, and I hope that you will also feel safe in Poland,” he told those taking part in the march. „The task of every local government official is to support all those who the populist authorities try to marginalise, hound and build myths around that have nothing in common with reality,” said Trzaskowski.
A member of the Visegrad24 editorial team was unable to attend Vespers owing to the tram disruption it caused.
