Reports indicate Grzegorz Braun allegedly defaced displays from pride events with anti-LGBTQ slogans.
Grzegorz Braun, a Polish presidential candidate and Member of the European Parliament, is accused of vandalizing an LGBTQ exhibition in Opole with spray-painted slogans against “gay propaganda,” according to local news outlets.
Video footage circulating on social media purportedly shows Braun arriving at Opole’s main square on Tuesday with black spray paint and writing “Stop pervert propaganda” on panels showcasing the activities of local LGBTQ groups.
The exhibition, titled ‘There’s more of us! Provoke equality with us,’ featured LGBTQ-related content, including photos from Opole’s pride parades and personal stories from gay residents in the region.
Police at the scene reportedly documented the incident without intervening but informed Braun of the potential legal ramifications of property damage. Teczowe Opole (‘Rainbow Opole’), the association that organized the display, is said to be considering legal action against the politician and may seek compensation for the damage.
Braun is known for his far-right ideologies, including opposition to Poland’s EU integration, feminism, and LGBTQ advocacy.
The lawmaker has also criticized Poland’s support for Ukraine under the Biden administration. He previously rebuked then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s support for Kiev, stating: “Blinken, go home as soon as possible. Get lost! We don’t want you here. We don’t want Polish people paying and dying for your wars.”
Braun was recently suspended from the European Parliament for six months after disrupting a moment of silence in January for Holocaust victims, according to Polish media.
He reportedly shouted multiple times: “Pray for the victims of the Jewish genocide in Gaza.” European Parliament President Roberta Metsola reportedly ordered his removal from the session by security.
“Madam President is punishing me for asking for prayers for the victims of the Jewish genocide against the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip,” Braun stated in a video.
Braun is a candidate in Poland’s upcoming presidential election on May 18. However, recent polls indicate his support is below 2%.