Visible "confusion". Towards the acceptance of gender diversity

About this project

<p>This project responds to the problem of transphobia and queerphobia that is present in the Polish mainstream media. In the report 'Social Situation of LGBTA Persons in Poland (2019-202)', the Campaign Against Homophobia describes the dramatic situation faced by transgender people. 69% of them have been the victims of violence, 1 in 5 have experienced unequal treatment in the workplace and 1 in 4 in access to healthcare. Rhetoric that excludes gender diverse people, including transgender and non-binary people, is becoming increasingly popular. Advocates of a view known as TERF (trans-exclusionary radical feminism) believe that transgender and non-binary people are a threat to women's rights. This narrative, which is quite common in the media and public institutions, has a direct impact on the social and legal situation of transgender people. In this project, we strive to de-escalate the public debate about gender diversity and inclusive language, while providing journalists with reliable knowledge on the subject. We analyse the challenges of the so called TERFism, which is widespread in Poland and in partner countries (Iceland and Norway). We are developing a positive social campaign, responding to the needs of transgender and non-binary people, which will increase their visibility and knowledge about them in society. We are addressing the project to both gender diverse people and their relatives in Poland, as well as other actors who are affected by anti-transgender rhetoric. Our project activities also involve the journalistic community, which has a significant impact on shaping public opinion about gender diverse people.</p>

Bilateral cooperation results

Cooperation with partners from Donor Countries – FRI, PKI and Samtokin '78 – was crucial for the implementation of the project. Thanks to the organization of study visits to Norway and Iceland, project participants were able to learn about strategies for counteracting negative narratives towards transgender and non-binary people and advocacy activities for their rights, which are effectively used in these countries. Meetings with local experts, public non-cisgender people experiencing hate, media representatives and organizations dealing with hate speech were a source of valuable information and inspiration. Each visit lasted a week and four people from the Polish side participated in them, which allowed for direct exchange of experiences and building a network of contacts. Based on the documentation and conclusions from the study visits, good practices and recommendations were developed that can be implemented in Poland. These results became the foundation for the development of tools and strategies for counteracting hate speech and supporting gender diversity in the country. It is planned to continue cooperation with foreign partners in order to further exchange experiences and develop joint activities.

Project partners

• The Norwegian Patient Organization for Gender Incongruence Donor project partner· Norway
• FRI - The Norwegian Organization for Sexual and Gender Diversity Donor project partner· Norway
• Samtökin ‘78 – The National Queer Organization of Iceland Donor project partner· Iceland