In an exclusive interview with Back2Stonewall, comic book artist and writer Dan Parent revealed that The Archies, an icon of American comics since 1941, will be supporting the boycott of Russia in the wake of the country’s new homophobic laws. Parent revealed that Archie and friends will be cancelling the Russia portion of a four country tour in Europe

Parent, best known for his work for his work on the Archie Comics and the introduction of Riverdale’s first openly gay character Kevin Keller, spent a few minutes with Back2Stonewall this weekend at Wizard World Comic-Con Chicago . We spent a few minutes talking with Dan and heard his thoughts on Russia’s anti-gay laws and human rights violations against its LGBT citizens.

“I’ve just been catching up on it,” Parent said, “It’s really upsetting.”

When asked whether he agreed with and supported a boycott of Russia, Parent instantly replied “Yes. Russia should be boycotted, so much so that actually in an upcoming special four issue story arch I’m writing the Archie gang are going to take a world tour to four countries. Russia was to be one of them. But they’re not going there now. They just can’t and they won’t. They love and support Kevin.”

This is not the first the first pro-gay stand Parent has taken since the introduction of Kevin Keller. Using the comic venue, Parent has taken on the issues of bullying, homophobia, the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and same-sex marriage, bringing these issues to the forefront of the comic community with unbridled support and understanding.

Kevin Keller, who was introduced Veronica #202, received national attention, positive reviews, and became the first Archie comic book to sell out in the comics 69-year history.

Dan Parent is a true LGBT ally.