(9 Sep 2013) Protesters gathered in several countries around the world on Sunday in solidarity with Russia's embattled gay community.
The kissing demonstrations, called "To Russia With Love," occurred in 50 cities, according to local media reports.
On Sunday, about 100 people marched in Brazil along the beach avenue in Rio de Janeiro to the Russian Consulate.
The event was part of a global effort for equality for same-sex couples.
Protesters gathered at Leblon, an upscale neighbourhood in Rio, and chanted and sang as they made their way to the consulate.
Once there, some pasted banners and posters with statements in support of gays in Russia on the building's gate.
One protester criticised Russia's law prohibiting promotion of "nontraditional" sexual relations.
"The Russian anti-gay law is an offence to the freedom we want," the protester told the crowd.
Several gay couples kissed in front of the consulate as part of their protest.
Meanwhile in Argentina, a small crowd gathered in front of the Russian Embassy in downtown Buenos Aires for the kiss-in demonstrations.
Some carried posters with messages such as "Homophobia = Discrimination = Death."
The kiss-in was sponsored by a local gay group that says Russia's anti-gay laws violate basic human rights and vowed further civic actions to show their opposition.
"For the last three years we have had a law allowing gay marriage and other legal support, that gives us a responsibility to fight for the rights of others around the world," Julieta Guerrini said Sunday.
Protesters said they would march on Tuesday to the venue where the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is meeting to put pressure on it as Russia prepares to host the Winter Olympics next year
Find out more about AP Archive: [ Ссылка ]
Twitter: [ Ссылка ]
Facebook: [ Ссылка ]
Instagram: [ Ссылка ]
You can license this story through AP Archive: [ Ссылка ]
