ABC
by Kirit Radia
July 31, 2013

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.

(excerpted)
http://abcnews.go.com/International/russ...ory?id=19829868

Quote: Justme wrote in post #2

---

If they are law abiding there should be not problems. Ramming your lifestyle choices and unwanted public displays of affection are just bad manners sometimes, illegal other times.

---