Let's start with clarification: this is not an action
organized by me, I did not even join but I show my support.
I do think it is important to say some words -- what
is going on with this issue? It already became known that the governor of
St. Petersburg (Georgiy Poltavchenko) signed the homophobic law (gay gag law)
imposing administrative fines on the so-called "propaganda of sodomy,
lesbianism, bisexuality, transgenderism" and paedophilia to minors. The
lawmakers passed the notorious "propaganda" law to silence any
reading, writing, speech or debate on anything "gay." The goal? To
make LGBT people disappear. No question.
Having read the article (link here) posted onto ILGA-Europe's site, I can only quote
it, because it perfectly summarizes what the problem is:
"In fact, this law has little to do with protecting minors. Today,
neither homosexual people, nor human rights defenders, nor lawyers can answer
the question of how this law is going to be applied in practice, due to its
vague nature and non-legal terminology. To talk about existence of
homosexuality, to publicly denounce homophobic violence, to develop sense of
self-awareness and dignity in homosexual people, to promote tolerance – all of
these acts can fall under the "propaganda" law. This law will serve
directly to further isolate and marginalize the gay community and encourage
hate towards a social group."
There was a banner-making afternoon nearly two weeks ago -- oh yeah, how to be creative but serious: spread your
message and raise your voice.
There has already been a "sympathy" protest last week outside
the Russian Embassy in Budapest and another demonstration is to be held
tomorrow. What is the aim? To show rage against condemnation of this bill and
also to pressure the governor to withdraw the law. In addition, it is an
opportunity to show solidarity with the Russian LGBTQI community.
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