HRC calls out American Hate Leaders in their role in Russia's Anti-Gay Law - VIDEO

President Obama definetly Sent a Message to Russia about their Anti-Gay Law - WATCH

UN Secretary General Ban-Ki Moon condemns Attacks on the LGBT Community in Russia - WATCH

Quick Thoughts about Our Protesting Efforts over Sochi Winter Games and Russia's Anti-Gay Law

The Winter Olympics starts Thursday. We have protested, hijacked hashtags, and written tons of articles... But was it enough?

What was accomplished? We got attention... A few news places reported on the hijack, but at the end of the day, what really happened?

I want to say that something was done, hopefully, Russia will rethink their Anti-Gay law. Till then, I hope we think about our tactics and how to make REAL change, instead of powerless noise.

AT&T speaks out against Russia's Anti-LGBT Law

From their site

The Olympic Games in Sochi also allow us to shine a light on a subject that’s important to all Americans: equality. As you may know, the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community around the world is protesting a Russian anti-LGBT law that bans “propaganda of non-traditional sexual relations.” To raise awareness of the issue, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) has called on International Olympic Committee (IOC) sponsors to take action and stand up for LGBT equality. AT&T is not an IOC sponsor, so we did not receive the HRC request. However, we are a long-standing sponsor of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC), we support HRC’s principles and we stand against Russia’s anti-LGBT law. AT&T has a long and proud history of support for the LGBT community in the United States and everywhere around the world where we do business. We support LGBT equality globally and we condemn violence, discrimination and harassment targeted against LGBT individuals everywhere. Russia’s law is harmful to LGBT individuals and families, and it’s harmful to a diverse society. We celebrate the diversity of all Olympic athletes, their fans, Russian residents and all people the world over – including and, especially, our employees and their loved ones.

The First Publication falls Victim to the Russian Anti-Gay Law

Queer Russia reports that the first media outlet has been fined due to the Anti-gay propaganda law.

Editor-in-Chief of the Molodoi Dalnevostochnik newspaper, Alexander Suturin, was fined 50,000 rubles ($1,400 in US money). He wrote an article about a teacher being fired because he was gay. Also, the paper was targeted because of their website's warning label. They allow people above the age of 16 to visit its website. The age of majority in Russia is 18.

Alexander said he would appeal. However, I'm surprised this is the first one. You would think there would be multiple ones... Interesting.

Russian Prime Minister says No One really complains about the Anti-Gay Propaganda Law - WATCH

German President is Boycotting the Winter Games in Sochi

German President Joachim Gauck will not be in Sochi for the Winter games. He is boycotting it due to Russia's anti-gay law.

Presidential spokeswoman Ferdos Forudastan confirmed his decision today. I wonder if others will follow suit.

source

WATCH Elton John Denounces Russia's Anti-Gay Laws on-stage in Moscow

From Bilerico Project

"You took me to your hearts all these years ago and you've always welcomed me with warmth and open arms any time I've visited. You have always embraced me and you have never judged me. So I am deeply saddened and shocked over the current legislation that is now in place against the LGBT community here in Russia. In my opinion, it is inhumane and it is isolating. People have demanded that because of this legislation, I must not come here to Russia. But many, many more people asked me to come and I listened to them. I love coming here. 

"I want to show them and the world that I care and that I don't believe in isolating people. Music is a very powerful thing. It brings people together irrespective of their age, their race, their sexuality, or their religion. It does not discriminate. Look around you tonight. You see men, women, young and old, gay and straight. Thousands of Russian people enjoying the music. We're all here together in harmony and harmony is what makes a happy family and a strong society. "The spirit we share tonight is what builds a future of equality, love and compassion for my children and for your children. Please don't leave it behind when you leave tonight. Each and every one of you please, keep this spirit in your life and in your heart. I wish you love and peace and health and happiness. And this show is dedicated to the memory of Vladislav Tornovoi."

Go to the link above to learn more about Vladislav

Thomas Roberts speaks out on Russia's Anti-Gay Laws on Miss Universe's Red Carpet - WATCH

Interesting Quote: Lee Pearson

"I don't care if it means I go to prison. In some respects I hope I do because then the Prime Minister and my country would have to get involved and that would add to the embarrassment for Russia. Those calling for a boycott don't understand that the Olympics and Paralympics could be the one chance these sportsmen and women have to achieve their goals. Yes, they can be sympathetic towards our cause but their first goal must be to do their best. I say to Stephen, Rupert and all those backing a boycott that Sochi is going to happen whatever they say and they should join me so our collective message to Russia is stronger. It's much more powerful to be there than not...But the bigger reason for not boycotting Sochi is that you'd simply be putting your head in the sand. Isn't it much better to educate Russians and shed more light on the legislation both in Russia and worldwide? It is shocking. It's like Germany in the Thirties. We shouldn't ignore this."

Lee is a gay 10-time British equestrian gold medalist
source

LGBT Greek Group protest the Winter Games

A Greek LGBT youth group called "Colour Youth" protested against Russia's Anti-Gay law this weekend. As the Olympic torch makes its way to Sochi, the group came out to promote their message and stance.

Gay rights activist on Russian Games... by reuters

Check out some pics from the group's FB page after the jump

Interesting Quote: Jean-Claude Killy, chairman of the IOC Coordination Commission

"The Olympic Charter states that all segregation is completely prohibited, whether it be on the grounds of race, religion, color or other, on the Olympic territory. That will be the case, we are convinced. Another thing I must add: the IOC doesn't really have the right to discuss the laws in the country where the Olympic Games are organized. As long as the Olympic Charter is respected, we are satisfied, and that is the case."

Speaking for the IOC, he feels that Russia's Anti-Gay Law doesn't violate Olympic charter

Ian McKellen: Don't Boycott the Olympics, but Ignore Russia’s Anti-Gay Law - VIDEO

I agree with Ian

Scott Lively: Russia's Anti-Gay Law Is "One Of The Proudest Achievements Of My Career"

So this is what they're saying about us in Russia - VIDEO

WATCH as Scott Lively spreads Anti-gay hate in Russia

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

And please read the interview he gave to NBC News here

CNN: Masha Gessen speaks on why a Boycott against Russia is Important - WATCH

New Video: Mister Chase - Wonderful (A Message For The LGBT in Russia)

BBC News reports on the Anti-Gay Law and Violence in Russia