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In Russia it is now illegal to even speak about homosexuality around minors, much less openly display gay pride. Technically the ban is against "propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations" around minors, but the implication for openly gay individuals is clear. Public displays of affection by gays, including holding hands or displaying symbols like a rainbow flag, are now banned. Violators face steep fines and jail time; foreigners face similar penalties plus deportation.
So what will happen to openly gay athletes and fans, as well as any vocal supporters or protestors, when Russia hosts the Winter Olympics next year in Sochi?
This week, comments by a lawmaker from St. Petersburg set off a firestorm online when he said that fans and athletes would not be immune from prosecution during the games.
Originally posted by Carreau
I don't think Russia could stand the international outrage of an Olympic athlete being arrested during the games on the charge of homosexuality.
Originally posted by Carreau
reply to post by FlyersFan
It's one thing for Russia to arrest it's own citizens for a crime of homosexuality. It would be an entirely different situation to arrest a foreign athlete during the Olympics. Even countries with the majority Catholic would not support such an action. I wasn't referring to Islamic Theocracies in regards to the international outrage.
There would be far reaching effects on Russia if they were dumb enough to do that.
Originally posted by FlyersFan
I understand that while you are in a country you have to follow it's laws.
But in the past Russia has said that this wouldn't be enforced during the olympics.
Now they are saying it will be.