LGF continue calls to repeal Russian anti-LGBT legislation established during Manchester Pride 2013.
The Lesbian and Gay Foundation hosted an event at its Community Resource Centre, 5 Richmond Street, in Manchester on Tuesday 3September where opponents of recent laws preventing the promotion of “non-traditional relationships” and banning foreign gay and lesbian couples from adopting Russian children were encouraged to write a message of support on a luggage tag for the LGBT citizens of St Petersburg, carrying on the work originated during Manchester Pride.
As part of this year’s ‘To Russia, With Love’ campaign, thousands of visitors to Manchester Pride’s Big Weekend voiced their support for the LGBT community of St Petersburg en masse during the annual Candlelit Vigil which closes the festival each year. A film of this incredible and inspiring display of solidarity can be viewed HERE
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.
“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.”
Andrew Gilliver, Campaigns & Engagement Manager for The Lesbian & Gay Foundation added “Our colleagues in St Petersburgwant to keep the communication channels open, and it’s really important we continue to show our support for our Russian LGB&T brothers and sisters. We’re calling on all Enough is Enough! supporters to take action now and show their solidarity!”
