Russian police arrest gay rights activists in St Petersburg

Russian police detained around 25 gay rights activists who took part in an unsanctioned rally in St Petersburg, according to the independent.co.uk.

A few dozen activists gathered at Palace Square on Saturday afternoon in defiance of a ban on holding the rally.

Purportedly, organizers had said they would stage one-man protests to demand freedom of association after city authorities turned down their request to hold a parade.

One man was pictured in front of the Alexander Column holding a placard featuring a rainbow which read: “My mum loves me, my dad loves me, my friends love me, why can not you?”

Police detained campaigners who unfurled rainbow flags or held placards and dragged them into a police bus.

Three policemen were seen carrying one man who looked despondent but still held his multicolored banner aloft above his head. 

Historically Russia is ant-gay under Putin rule and in recent history laws have been made banning any LGBT propaganda or memorabilia. 

Information curtsey of independt.co.uk.

The Gayly. 8/9/2018 @ 1:13 p.m.