Manchester Pride are showing their support for the LGBT community of St Petersberg by dedicating this year’s Big Weekend to them.
Big Weekend visitors will be invited to send messages of hope to the LGBT residents of Manchester’s twin city St Petersberg on luggage tags provided, which will be showcased at the festival and then sent to Russia.
The To Russia, With Love campaign will be launched by a mass ‘kiss-in’ at the opening of the Big Weekend in the Gay Village, after which festival-goers will be welcomed to write their notes of support.
Chief Executive of Manchester Pride John Stewart said: “Manchester and St Petersburg have enjoyed a cultural and economic friendship for over fifty years, and this relationship is the ideal channel for Manchester Pride to show its alliance with the city’s LGBT community.”
Russia has had equality in the age of consent for ten years; they removed the ban on gays and lesbians serving in the military in 2003 and have given transgender people the ability to legally change their gender following a transition since the 60s.
However, recent laws prohibiting ‘the promotion of non-traditional relationships’ have once again dehumanised and stigmatised Russia’s LGBT community.
Vicken Couligian, Manchester Pride chairman said: “We are incredibly fortunate to be able to openly celebrate the diversity of Manchester and the surrounding region, but it only feels correct that we should acknowledge the persecution that the LGBT community in Russia, and other countries throughout the world, experience on a daily basis.”
Mr Stewart added: “Manchester is known throughout the world for its gay village and views of acceptance and compassion.
“It is in this spirit of fellowship that we offer our messages of courage and hope to Russia, with love.”
The To Russia, With Love wall will be located alongside the Main Arena on Bloom Street, throughout the festival from August 23 – 26.
Picture courtesy of Dionysus, with thanks.
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