“I think it’s terrible. It’s disgusting that something like this is happening in middle of Europe,” the activist tells OUTtv. For his project, Staszewski has made a sign with “LGBT-free zone” in multiple languages. “The zones are real, but the sign is prepared by me just as a visualisation of the new law introduced in Poland and to raise awareness about the violation of LGBT rights in those areas,” Staszewski said.

It is against democratic values and against what I believe are European values. It is a stigma. Regional officials show us that we are not part of society, that we are threat.”

For his project, Staszewski will visit the 37 disputed areas in Poland, to shine a light on the LGBT people that live there.

“This is an important part in the history of our fight for equal rights and needs to be documented,” said Staszewski.

- Bart Staszewski

The European Parliament recently condemned the ‘LGBT-free’ zones. Now, multiple MEPs commented on the project. Dutch MEP Sophie in ‘t Veld said the pictures were “powerful and heartbreaking”.