Terrible reports have recently appeared from Chechnya of gay men being abducted, tortured and killed.
Update: Birmingham LGBT have organised a solidarity march on Saturday 22nd April at 2:30pm. Meet at Birmingham LGBT centre 38/40 Holloway Circus, B1 1EQ. Full details about the march here.
Amnesty International report:
Over a hundred men suspected of being gay have been abducted, tortured and some even killed in the southern Russian republic of Chechnya.
The Chechen government won’t admit that gay men even exist in Chechnya, let alone that they ordered what the police call ‘preventive mopping up’ of people they deem undesirable. We urgently need your help to call out the Chechen government on the persecution of people who are, as they put it, of ‘non-traditional orientation’, and urge immediate action to ensure their safety.
This violence is part of a general atmosphere of homophobia in Chechnya, with many gay men attacked or killed by their own families in so-called ‘honour-based violence’. There have also been threats made against LGBT rights organisations and people trying to help gay men escape the violence.
Amnesty International has more details on what is happening, and a petition calling on the Russian and Chechen authorities to investigate these incidents, and protect anyone at risk because of their sexual orientation.
It’s tough to hear about terrible cases like this, or Sam’s Story (which we are highlighting throughout April and May) but it’s important to remember that by taking action together, we can make a difference.
Note: Peace Hub is highlighting this case, as we feel it is a positive action that fits with our current theme. It should not be inferred that Amnesty International has endorsed Peace Hub in any way.