Petrelis Files

SF & New York Staging June 5 Gay Human Rights Solidarity Vigils at Russian Consulates

(Peter Tatchell, UK human rights leader, on right in blue shirt, about to be punched by homophobic thug in Moscow.)

Gay human rights activists on Tuesday, June 5, in two US cities will take to the streets in front of Russian government facilities and say to Vladimir Putin, "Human rights for gays and all Russian peoples!"

These actions are in response to the violence and human rights violations perpetrated against gay and lesbian Russians, and their allies, on the streets of Moscow on May 27.

If you've not yet checked out the web site for the brave gays and lesbians of GayRussia, please do so. You'll also find much background information and further links through Rex Wockner and Doug Ireland's blogs.

On June 5 in San Francisco this veteran activist, along with the head of my church, Pastor Robert Goldstein of St. Francis Lutheran Church, will stand in front of the Russian Consulate, located at 2790 Green Street, between Baker and Broderick Streets. This will be a short vigil and speak out, from 4:00 to 5:00 pm.

Also on June 5 in New York City longtime advocates Brendan Fay and George Plagionos will gather at the Russian Consulate, located at 9 E. 91st Street, right off Fifth Avenue. Brendan and George will hold their action from 12 noon to 1:00 pm. You can reach Brendan via email: brendan@stpatsforall.com , or phone: 1-718-721-2780.

All people concerned with human rights anywhere, and of course, those who worry a little more for gay and lesbian people in Russian and all the world's countries, are asked to join us and stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters of Moscow and all of Russia.

(UK Performer and activist Right Said Fred, with a bloody eye after he was slugged.)