Russian City Advances Antigay Measure

The city legislature of St. Petersburg, Russia, has advanced a bill that prohibits "public activities promoting homosexuality," including LGBT pride events.

Lawmakers Wednesday approved the measure on its second reading; three readings are necessary for final approval. They had approved it on its first reading in November, and the third reading is expected next week, according to international gay rights group All Out. The mayor's signature is then required for it to become law.

"The legislation effectively outlaws any gay pride events," reports Russian news agency RIA Novosti. "It also allows authorities to impose fines of up to 500,000 rubles ($16,700) for 'public activities promoting homosexuality (sodomy and lesbianism), bisexualism and transgender identity' as well as pedophilia among minors."

Police arrested several pro-gay demonstrators outside city government offices Wednesday. Officials in St. Petersburg, the second largest city in Russia, have threatened to push for a similar measure nationwide.

All Out is calling on LGBT rights supporters worldwide to contact their foreign affairs offices and voice their opposition to the bill. Information on how to do so is here.