POLAND – A group of gay Polish soccer fans have requested that organizers of the 2012 European Soccer Championships provide separate seating for gay spectators to protect them from harassment and violence.
According to the Associated Press, the group Teczowa Trybuna 2012 (Rainbow Stand 2012) have said, “During trips to matches of our beloved clubs … we unfortunately are often faced with unpleasantness, harassment and violence from the ‘real’ fans. We dream of being able to relax in the stands – we can’t imagine not being at the Euro 2012 matches, which will be held in our country.”
Some gay rights groups, however, have distanced themselves from this request. Chris Basiurski, of the UK-based Gay Football Supporters’ Network, told PinkNews.co.uk that although Polish fans could be more likely to suffer violence, he did not agree with segregation.
“I fully sympathize with their wish to feel safe and protected but I’m not convinced that segregation is the best option,” he said. “We need to create atmospheres where people can be open about their sexual orientation. The best way is education for the fans and ensuring that match day stewards understand the issues.”
The city of Gdansk, which is one match venue, has already rejected the Teczowa Trybuna’s request, saying it would stigmatize gay people effectively singling them out in an already traditionally homophobic environment.
Homosexuality is legal in Poland, but gay couples cannot adopt children and there is no legal recognition of their relationships.
