Thousands of gay rights supporters march through Warsaw

Marchers on a platform drive past a controversial art installation "The Rainbow" during the annual gay pride parade in Warsaw, Poland, Saturday, June 13, 2015. (AP Photo/Alik Keplicz)

Warsaw, Poland (AP) — Thousands of activists have marched in scorching weather in Warsaw's 15th yearly "Equality Parade," confirming a growing public support for gay rights.

The participants chanted in support of same sex marriage and the right for same-sex couples to adopt children. Carrying a huge rainbow-colored flag, they marched from the Parliament building, through the downtown Savior Square, where a giant rainbow stands. The artwork has been repeatedly burnt by right-wing groups and is to be moved next year to another location.

Small groups of gay rights opponents chanted hostile rhymes, but there was no violence.

Recent proposals by left-wing lawmakers to debate regulations that would allow for same-sex marriage have been rejected in Parliament. Poland has no rights for same-sex couples, but the awareness of the need for them is growing.

Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

The Gayly – June 14, 2015 @ 1pm.