Rowing Against Adversity: Katarzyna Zillmann 's Quest for Inclusion and Equality
Her voice echoes deep into the heart of Poland, a country which in the past few years has been marked by the creation of over 100 “LGBT-free zones.” Led by a far-right organization, these municipalities and regions passed resolutions allowing private services to be denied to LGBTQI+ individuals —including access to sports—, thus casting a shadow of discrimination and violence on one third of the country. Between two rowing sessions, Zillmann takes the time to tell us about the resilience of athletes who refuse to remain silent in the face of adversity, both in sport and beyond.«
As a female and lesbian rower, do you find yourself rowing against a tidal of sexism and homophobia in the sporting world, or do you feel buoyed by flows of respect and solidarity?
As a female and lesbian athlete, the world of rowing seems a true battlefield, with its challenges and allies. Although sexism and homophobia still exist, I am strengthened by the respect and friendship that I believe prevail in competitions. That's precisely why I got involved in campaigns likeSport Przeciw Homofobii” [Sports Against Homophobia], to push for inclusion and tolerance both within and outside the sporting community. That's the battle I'm fighting today!
... a relentless fight to bring about a positive change in the lives of athletes. Do you think that LGBTQI+ athletes’ visibility can have an impact on social norms beyond the sports arena?
The visibility of queer athletes plays a key role in reshaping social norms and fostering a culture of inclusion. Through initiatives like theSport Przeciw Homofobiicampaign, we challenge preconceptions and pave the way for acceptance at a deeper level. Our success and openness on widely-known scenarios like the Olympics sends a powerful message to the world, breaking down barriers and promoting understanding of LGBTQI+ individuals beyond the sports realm. It's a movement that transcends the racing tracks, affecting everyday interactions and weaving positive change into the fabric of society. It's a message of unity that brings us together.
Talking about doing things together… Throughout your sporting career, you have won medals in both individual and team competitions. Which way do you think achieves quicker results?
In rowing, the path to success is paved with a blend of personal grit and collective harmony. While individual excellence sets the foundation, it's the seamless coordination and unified power of the team that will help us sail our way into swift achievements. Whether conquering the waters in solo races or rowing as one in team races like the Quadruple scull—, each member's dedication, resilience, and technical prowess play pivotal roles. Yet, it's the shared commitment and unwavering support within the team that turbocharges our progress and fuels our triumphs.
After clinching a silver medal in the Quadruple scull with Team Poland at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, you harnessed the spotlight to come out by thanking your girlfriend. The notion that sports should remain apolitical is often voiced —but do you consider your actions to be of a political nature?
Coming out publicly during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by thanking my girlfriend after clinching a silver medal with Team Poland was a significant moment not just for me, but for others facing similar identity challenges too. It sends a powerful message —that you can be true to yourself and still excel at the highest level in sports. An act that can even be seen in countries where the issue is criminalized. The impact is quite significant! My hope is that such declarations of identity can inspire courage and resilience in those rowing through their own journeys, reassuring them that they are not alone and that acceptance and success are achievable. If that's what it takes to bring about a change, then I'm ready to take on a political role in the sports arena. (laughs).
Looking back and seeing everything you’ve achieved, what are your dreams for the future?
Well, I think my dreams for the future transcend personal achievements in rowing. I aspire to see a sporting landscape that not only acknowledges but embraces diversity in its myriad of forms, where young athletes can grow up in an environment that respects and celebrates who they are, notwithstanding of their background or identity. Furthermore, my commitment with LGBTQI+ rights remains steadfast, and I hope to inspire next generations to do the same, to go out and champion equality and foster a legacy of acceptance and inclusion. Who comes next?
Her numbers:
- 9 The number of medals she’s won: 1 bronze, 4 silver, 4 gold.
- 1995 The year she was born.
- 2009 The year she first held a row.
- 28 Her current age.
- 1 Her favorite number.
Her track record:
- Olympic Game
- World Championships
- European Championship
