Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Russia Stops Gay March

Police in Russia have broken up a march by gay-rights activists in Moscow hours before the Eurovision Song Contest final. At least 30 campaigners had gathered near a university and were later arrested by riot police for taking part in the demonstration condemning the treatment of gays and lesbians in Russia.

The group, which included Peter Tatchell, British gay rights activist, were dragged away by police when they waved flags and chanted slogans demanding equal rights, including: "Homophobia is a disgrace of this country!"

Among those detained was Nikolai Alexeyev, a Russian gay rights leader. Police said they were arresting him for walking with a transvestite.

Read More At Al Jazeera

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