LIVE: Toronto LGBTQ community protests anti-gay policies at Sochi Olympics

Protestors gather at the Russian Consulate, 175 Bloor St. E., South Tower, Toronto.

Protestors march in Toronto against Russian anti-gay laws/Leandro Diaz-Matas Toronto Observer 

imageOn the eve of the Sochi 2014 Olympics official opening ceremony, protestors from across Toronto are saying “nyet” to the Russian government’s anti-gay laws. Toronto Observer is at the scene.

Poster advertising Thursday's protest outside the Toronto Russian consulate

Poster advertising Thursday’s protest outside the Toronto Russian consulate (courtesy: Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network)

The LGBT community plans on marching to the Russian consulate tonight, in cooperation with worldwide protests this week. They are protesting the anti-LGBT laws under Russian President Vladimir Putin’s administration and wish to bring attention to the global issue of the persecution of LGBT people.

According to organizers, these anti-LGBT laws go beyond equality. The Executive Director of the Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network, Richard Elliot, says that these laws prevent access to sexual education, a risk not worth taking.

“This is about actually promoting sexual health and saving the lives of young people as well. They are the ones who pay the price the most,” he said.

The rally is set for 6 p.m. tonight. A Facebook page has also been organized for those interested in getting involved. You can also tune in on the live blog below beginning at 5:45 local time.

About this article

By: Leandro Diaz-Matus
Posted: Feb 6 2014 5:45 pm
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