An action to demonstrate the danger of the new anti-LGBT laws



By Cathy Kristofferson, July 2, 2013

Amidst current graphic protests, there is a renewed call for the boycott of the Sochi Olympics, as gay arrests continue in Russia following President Putin’s signing into law the nationwide so-called “anti-propaganda bill,” banning the so called ‘promotion’ in the presence of minors of “non-traditional sexual relations.”

As we reported on OBLOGDEE, at least 40 pro-gay activists were arrested Saturday and detained at a sanctioned St. Petersburg gay pride rally when they were violently attacked by at least 200 anti-gay Nationalists.

Today four activists were arrested in central Moscow protesting the new law. In a great piece of performance activism, three of the four laid in a pool of blood at the entrance to the Presidential Administration building with posters of recent victims of homophobia taped to their backs. A fourth activist stood by them holding a campaign poster decrying the legislation. As they were being led away the activists explained:

“This action aims to demonstrate the danger of new anti-LGBT laws, because of which every individual, regardless of orientation, it may be in a pool of blood.”

The recent arrests together with Sunday’s signing of the bill into law have renewed international calls for a boycott of the Sochi, Russia Olympics. We reported on the original call by NYC’s Rusa LGBT here on OBLOGDEE. With the so-called “promotion” ban now in effect nationwide in Russia, all athletes and attendees – gay or straight – are at greater risk of arrest, detention and deportation.

Activists warn that even pro-gay attire, as simple as a rainbow pin, or any speech or action deemed positive support for LGBT people or their rights, can lead to deportation following what could be up to 15 days in detention.

Activists are also calling on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to speak up against the Russian law and its violation of the Olympic charter’s statement of non-discrimination. Before the law was signed, international human rights watchdog, Human Rights Watch, issued a letter demanding action from the IOC due to the worsening state of homophobia in Russia and clear risk to athletes and attendees. Nary a peep has been heard in response as the homophobia level continues to ratchet upwards adding more and more risk to the Games.

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