The politician and environmental activist Freda Meissner-Blau frequently exercised her right to freedom of assembly while campaigning against nuclear energy (Zwentendorf nuclear power plant) and advocating for environmental protection, human rights, and women's rights. She is considered a pioneer of the Green Party and in 1986 was the first female lead candidate in the Austrian presidential election, as well as parliamentary leader of the "Green Alternative." After resigning her parliamentary seat in 1988, she remained politically active and continued to champion human rights, women's rights, and the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. "She was a powerful voice for humanity, openness, tolerance, and environmental protection. She was a visionary and a voice urging a fundamental shift in thinking to preserve this world," said her son, Nicolas Pawloff, at the ceremonial renaming of the Danube Canal promenade.