Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A transsexual woman and an openly gay man took seats in Poland's newly elected parliament yesterday – historic firsts that reflect profound social change in the traditionally Roman Catholic country.
Anna Grodzka, who was born a man but underwent a sex change, entered the assembly hall to warm greetings. Several men and women shook her hand, while one male lawmaker kissed her on the cheek. Prime Minister Donald Tusk also shook her hand.
Ms Grodzka sat next to Robert Biedron, who is the first openly gay person elected to Poland's parliament. Both belong to Palikot's Movement, a new progressive party that became the third-largest in parliament in the election on 9 October. Ms Grodzka said she felt overwhelmed by emotion as the session opened with the national anthem and when she later took her oath of office.
"It is a symbolic moment, but we owe this symbolism not to me but to the people of Poland, because they made their choice," Ms Grodzka said. "They wanted a modern Poland, a Poland open to variety, a Poland where all people would feel good, regardless of their differences. I cannot fail them in their expectations."
Palikot's Movement, led by entrepreneur-turned-politician Janusz Palikot, has vowed to push for liberal causes. It opposes the influence of the church in political life, promotes gay rights and wants to challenge the country's near-total ban on abortion.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments