Scroll To Top
Women

Eurovision in Moscow Sets Stage for Gay Rights Rallies and Arrests

Eurovision in Moscow Sets Stage for Gay Rights Rallies and Arrests

Police busted up gay pride rallies in Moscow during the international songwriting competition Eurovision. They arrested up to 40 gay rights activists, including British gay rights activist Peter Tatchell and Andy Thayer, co-founder of Chicago's Gay Liberation Network.

Police busted up gay pride rallies in Moscow during the international songwriting competition Eurovision. Police arrested up to 40 gay rights activists, including British gay rights activist Peter Tatchell and Andy Thayer, co-founder of Chicago's Gay Liberation Network.


"Today's arrests go against the principles of Eurovision, which are about peace, harmony, cooperation and unity between all the peoples in Europe," Tatchell told The Associated Press after being released by police.


Courage Campaign, the organization that is spearheading Meet in the Middle, the Fresno rally set for the Saturday after the California Supreme Court hands down its decision on Prop. 8's validity, is urging people to boycott Eurovision, one of the most-watched annual television events on the continent,  the AP reported.


Gay Rights supporters held rallies in conjunction with Eurovision to call attention to what they say is widespread discrimination against homosexuals in Russia, according to the AP.
Eurovision, a weeklong event of competition and parties, enjoys a great deal of support from the gay community.

The Advocates with Sonia BaghdadyOut / Advocate Magazine - Jonathan Groff and Wayne Brady

From our Sponsors

Most Popular

Latest Stories

author avatar

Pride Staff