Freedom: the right or power to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint. A word and a feeling we could not even think to live without.
In Russia on July 3rd President Vladimir Putin signed a law banning homosexual couples as well singles to adopt children from Russia if they lived in a country where equality marriage exists in any form.
Putin also signed multiple anti-gay bills ranging from the arrest of any homosexual or lesbian tourists and foreign nationals that they suspect of being homosexual. The other bill classifies any homosexual propaganda as pornography.
These laws are vague, broad and ignorant. Anyone that speaks in defense of the LGBT community is subject to arrest. This includes lawyers, teachers, parents, and lawmakers could be arrested and or fined for going against Putin’s bills.
There is talk about yet another bill Putin has yet to pass. This bill would be the removal of children from their families if their parents are homosexual or if there is suspicion of their parents being homosexual. This would also allow the removal of children from adoptive homes if their adoptive parents are suspected of being homosexual.
These stories are extremely upsetting to read and hear about. There are posts on social media reporting homophobic beatings from Russian officials as well as civilians. These posts include videos of the beatings showing extreme hatred and cruelty. Photos are also surfacing of these brutal acts.
Social media is branching out to help our LGBT community brothers and sisters of Russia. Protests all over the world are being performed, flags are being hung, petitions are being signed and these cruel acts are being brought to the public’s eye of both homo- and hetero-sexual communities.
I have singed plenty of petitions to help those who are being affected by these acts and hatred. Friends and family have also been equally as supportive.
Imagine losing all of your rights, all of your love for yourself and above all, losing your life. Here in the US, freedom has been fought for and earned on many levels. It is time we help others do the same.
People who do not understand or approve of homosexuality are entitled to their own opinion. But can a person sit back and honestly read, watch and hear about all of these acts of cruelty and honestly not feel anything. Putting aside all disagreements, people need to pull together now more than ever to help the LGTB community in Russia as well as those who are not homosexual but are suspected.
Can we really sit back and watch children being taking from their homes and having their lives ruined by losing their parents or parent. Something needs to be done and coming together as one community is the perfect place to start.
