Born: 1979 (Lwówek Śląski, Poland)
Biography:
Marta Mirosława Lempart, born in 1979 in Lwówek Śląski, Poland, is an influential women’s rights activist and the founder of the All-Poland Women’s Strike. Throughout her career, Lempart has been at the forefront of the fight for women’s reproductive rights in Poland, challenging the conservative Law and Justice party’s tightening abortion laws.
Lempart’s dedication to activism began in 2016 when she co-founded the All-Poland Women’s Strike. This social movement emerged during the preparations for the pro-abortion-access Black Protests and quickly gained momentum. Lempart’s group aimed for better abortion access, stronger women’s rights, LGBT rights, separation of church and state, and improved healthcare. These fundamental goals formed the basis of her activism.
In addition to her work on women’s rights, Lempart has been a vocal advocate for the rights of the LGBT community and people with disabilities. she champions the cause of equal rights and inclusivity for all marginalized groups. Her commitment to secularism, and the separation of church and state in particular, has been a central theme throughout her advocacy.
Before her career in activism took off, Lempart had a diverse professional background. She received formal training as a lawyer and held a minor role in the Polish Ministry of Labour and Social Policy during the Civic Platform party’s time in power. During her tenure, she worked diligently to improve disability rights in the country. Following this, Lempart transitioned into the real estate development sector.
However, her life took a turn after the conservative Law and Justice party came to power in 2015. Lempart began working with the Committee for the Defence of Democracy, a pro-European NGO, and her activism took precedence. Since then, she has dedicated herself wholeheartedly to fighting for the rights of women and other marginalized groups.
Lempart’s impact as an activist cannot be overstated. Under her leadership, the All-Poland Women’s Strike played a crucial role in the 2020-2021 women’s strike protests in Poland. This powerful anti-government movement emerged in response to the tightening abortion laws, and Lempart’s group became one of its driving forces. Their efforts mobilized thousands of people and garnered significant attention both nationally and internationally.
Despite her determination and successes, Lempart’s activism has come at a high personal cost. She has been arrested multiple times on various charges related to her activism and faced countless legal battles. In February 2021, the Polish government took their attacks on Lempart to a new level, charging her with criminal felonies for her role in the women’s strike protests and her criticism of the Catholic Church. These actions were seen by many as a form of political pressure on her movement. Additionally, Lempart has received death threats from opponents, forcing her to go into hiding away from her home for her own safety.
Throughout her life, Marta Lempart has demonstrated unwavering dedication, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity. Her impact on Polish society and the women’s rights movement is immeasurable, and her tireless efforts will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.