British pop singer Olly Alexander has come out in support of the LGBTIQ+ community in Poland, wearing rainbow colours during a performance on the local version of The Voice.
Alexander, who is the lead vocalist in popular band Years & Years, took to social media to explain that he wore the colours to show solidarity to those suffering under the anti-LGBT attitudes of the current Polish government. The move came after the star was approached by Polish LGBTIQ+ website , explaining that the TV station he was set to perform on was known for resisting the representation of same-sex couples.
“Poland’s government has become increasingly anti-LGBT and same sex couples are not allowed to be shown on the TV station,” Alexander wrote on Twitter.
He continued: “Poland has embraced our band from the very beginning and I know its people to be kind, funny and hugely generous.
“Wearing rainbow colors is just a small statement but I’m very thankful to have been asked to do so. The government’s stance on LGBTQ+ equality does not reflect the pride and love we see at our shows there, nor is it reflected in the people we work with."
He concluded: "We had a great week end, I love Poland and I will do my best to do right by you guys.”
While homosexuality is legal in Poland, there is an ongoing absence of legal recognition for same-sex couples, with many of the European country's social and political attitudes heavily influenced by the Catholic church.
You can watch the full performance below:
