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The Winter Olympics were, up until last year, traditionally a low-key event in the sporting calendar. Last year’s Sochi Winter Olympics in Russia changed that, drawing the undivided attention of the gay press (and the media at large). Reports of homophobic violence fuelled by new gay propaganda legislation – a more aggressive take on Section 28 – were more discussed than the any actual sporting event in the Western World’s LGBT community.
The response was mixed over what people could actually do in the West. Vodka was boycotted, although Stoli, the brand being poured down drains in Soho was, in fact, Russian only in name. Art, activism and some publicity stunts became big news in the community as people were determined to do something.
6pm Tuesday 22nd April – Clerkenwell Centre, EC1V 3AR
Now that the Sochi Olympics are over, Gay networking and events society The List are hosting After Sochi, an evening with special guest speakers from human rights groups. The climate in Russia has changed significantly and the talks will address both what the organisations are doing to help LGBT individuals in Russia. There will be a focus on practical support people can give to keep the issue in the spotlight and support the cause.
Speakers:
– Boris Dittrich, Human Rights Watch
– Jonathan Cooper, Human Dignity Trust
– Olga Szubert, Stonewall
Newcastle based stencil artist, IDa4 will also be at the event with prints of a piece of protest street art he produced earlier in the year.
The event takes place on Tuesday 22nd April at 6pm in the Clerkenwell Centre, EC1V 3AR.
Moscow Mule cocktails will be served upon arrival, courtesy of Stoli. You’ll be able to follow the event on twitter using the hashtag #AfterSochi (I’m sure someone will be livetweeting it).
For details and to sign up, please go to http://aftersochi.eventbrite.co.uk
