Gay Activists To Picket Obama In Moscow

Well, this is a switch.

Gay activists in Moscow say they will seek permission from the city authorities to stage a picket supporting same sex marriage, in both the United States and Russia, in front of the US Embassy in Moscow on July 7 during the State visit of President Obama in the Russian capital. And they will be using a variation on the Obama campaign slogan “Yes We Can”, Nikolai Alekseev revealed in Geneva this morning. “We want to express our solidarity with US gay activists who are planning similar protests in Washington DC, Chicago and other cities in the coming months,” he said.

Since Obama has entered the White House, gay rights have already made significant progress, Mr. Alekseev said. “In March, the US added its signature to the Human Rights Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity statement first presented at the United Nations in New York last December – the statement aims to decriminalise homosexuality around the world. “Last month, State Secretary Hilary Clinton announced that gay partners of US diplomats at missions outside the country will receive equal benefits.” US activists are expecting the President to make a move on the issue of gay marriage which they see as far more significant.

Judging by their treatment at last month's pride event, it seems doubtful they'll get permission to protest, unless the local government sees an opportunity to embarrass the president.