Gay Pride planned for anniversary of seige of Leningrad

By Celine Casey • July 6, 2007 - 12:15

They are planning to hold the gay Pride parade on the anniversary of the start of the siege of Leningrad. photo: James G Howes

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LGBT Russians are planning to hold the gay Pride parade in St Petersburg on September 8, the anniversary of the start of the siege of Leningrad, one of the most dramatic episodes of World War II.

Alexandra Polyanskaya, spokeswoman for the parade's committee said that the gay community are not uncomfortable about the parade been held on this date.

This is despite the authorities opposing similar events in the past.

They previously banned a gay Parade in May as it clashed with a important date in the Orthodox church.

"We are certain that we will be able to conduct our parade with style and without hurting anyone's feelings," Ms Polyanskaya said.

An application to hold the parade celebrating gay culture will be filed two weeks before the September 8 as required by law said Polyanskaya.

"We will file several applications, about five, describing various itineraries," she added.

Earlier applications were refused by the authorities administration for the parade to be held on May 27, the same day as St. Petersburg celebrates its city day.

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