30 Russian gay rights activists have been detained by the country’s police for taking part in an unsanctioned rally in St Petersburg. According to reports, a few dozen activists gathered at Palace Square on Saturday afternoon to fight a ban to hold the rally. Following the city’s refusal to allow freedom of association amongst gays, organisers decided to stage a one-man protest but the city authorities turned down their request to hold a parade. One man was pictured in front of the Alexander Column with a placard which read; “My mum loves me, my dad loves me, my friends love me, why can not you?” Campaigners who unfurled rainbow flags or held placards were arrested by the police. 
One man was seen being carried by three policemen as he held his multicoloured banner aloft above his head. The gathering came at the same time the gay Pride celebrations and marches were taking place around the world. In 2013, Russia passed a law banning the spread of gay “propaganda”. Russian police, just last month detained British LGBT+ campaigner Peter Tatchell after he protested in support of gay rights.Photo Credit: Getty
