Stand for Equality at Sochi
From: "David Pichler, Human Rights
First" Wed, 5 Feb '14 12:52a
To: Nksagar@rediffmail.com and others
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Dear Naresh:
As a gay Olympian, I believe that the best response to mounting repression in
Russia is engagement. The Sochi Winter Olympic Games is an opportunity to
champion equality and human rights.
That's why I will be at Sochi this week, working with Human Rights First to
support Russians who oppose the government's assault on LGBT rights.
President Obama took a stand for equality by naming a diverse delegation to
Sochi, an unmistakable response to the horrifying anti-LGBT "propaganda" bill
that President Vladimir Putin signed in June. Of the nine people on the
delegation, three are openly gay or lesbian Olympians.
Urge the U.S. delegation to stand for equality by
calling for the repeal of Russia's antigay law.
The presence of LGBT members in the U.S. delegation—tennis legend Billie Jean
King, skating gold medalist Brian Boitano, and women's hockey team gold medalist
Caitlin Cahow—clearly demonstrates that the United States celebrates diversity.
Now the entire delegation, gay and straight, has the opportunity to show that
and stand up against Russia's crackdown on the LGBT community.
Today, so do you.
Urge the U.S. delegation to take a stand for equality
at the Sochi Olympic Games.
Our interest in LGBT rights in Russia must go beyond Sochi. Millions of
Russians, including many beyond the LGBT community, oppose Russia's return to
authoritarianism. After the Olympic torch leaves Sochi, these Russians will
still be there, fighting for the right to live and love openly. Please join us
in standing with them.
Sincerely,
David Pichler
U.S. Olympian
Human Rights First
P.S.: Many of you will watch the Sochi Olympics games from your home.
Stand for equality by donating to Human Rights First and getting a free "Sochi. Equality." knit hat.
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