Madonna defies Russian homosexuality law
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 10 August 2012 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Madonna defies Russian homosexuality law, 10 August 2012, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/502e435323.html [accessed 5 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
August 10, 2012
Pop star Madonna has defied a Russian law that forbids public endorsements of homosexuality.
Speaking to thousands at her St. Petersburg concert on August 9, Madonna demanded tolerance for gays and lesbians.
With the words "No fear" written on her back, she spoke about the dangers of societies that fail to treat their own people with "dignity, with respect, and with love."
Earlier, the U.S. Consulate in St. Petersburg warned about threats of "physical violence against spectators and performers" after Madonna spoke out in support of Russia's jailed feminist punk rock band Pussy Riot at her Moscow concert on August 7.
Russian Orthodox Christians protested on the streets outside the St. Petersburg show, chanting antigay slogans.
Politicians and archconservatives say they will evaluate video of Madonna's concert to see if she violated the law.
Based on reporting by Reuters, AFP, and dpa
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
