Russia needs a kick up the arse.
(Apologies if this shows up twice, my repost from DW seemed to fail)
I know my journal seems to be all about petitions and problems at the moment, but I think these things are important. The Russians are trying to gag the gay community.
From Allout.org
Dear friend,
Did you know that lawmakers in Russia's cultural capital of Saint Petersburg just passed a law that would make it a "crime" to write a book, publish an article or speak in public about being gay, lesbian, bi or transgender - labeling it "homosexual propaganda"?
I just watched a powerful video illustrating this attack on fundamental rights, and joined thousands in signing a powerful message to the Governor, who has the power to veto the bill, letting him know that if this law advances - I won't be spending a single cent as a tourist in his city. And I'm telling my friends and family to do the same.
Major governments have condemned the bill, and a grassroots surge of calls and petitions hasn't been able to stop it's advance. But with Russia spending $11 billion in the next five years to attract international tourists, and Saint Petersburg's reputation as the cosmopolitan "window to the west," together we will make sure that the powers that be in Russia will hear our people power - and pocketbook power - loud and clear.
Sign this letter to the governor, and ask your friends and colleagues to do the same. We only have a short window of time to pressure the Governor and demand that he VETO this backwards law. Every voice counts.
For more information on how to join the campaign, visit: http://www.allout.org/stpetersburg-dont-go
I know my journal seems to be all about petitions and problems at the moment, but I think these things are important. The Russians are trying to gag the gay community.
From Allout.org
Dear friend,
Did you know that lawmakers in Russia's cultural capital of Saint Petersburg just passed a law that would make it a "crime" to write a book, publish an article or speak in public about being gay, lesbian, bi or transgender - labeling it "homosexual propaganda"?
I just watched a powerful video illustrating this attack on fundamental rights, and joined thousands in signing a powerful message to the Governor, who has the power to veto the bill, letting him know that if this law advances - I won't be spending a single cent as a tourist in his city. And I'm telling my friends and family to do the same.
Major governments have condemned the bill, and a grassroots surge of calls and petitions hasn't been able to stop it's advance. But with Russia spending $11 billion in the next five years to attract international tourists, and Saint Petersburg's reputation as the cosmopolitan "window to the west," together we will make sure that the powers that be in Russia will hear our people power - and pocketbook power - loud and clear.
Sign this letter to the governor, and ask your friends and colleagues to do the same. We only have a short window of time to pressure the Governor and demand that he VETO this backwards law. Every voice counts.
For more information on how to join the campaign, visit: http://www.allout.org/stpetersburg-dont-go