Today, by unanimous vote (434-0), Russia voted on a bill supported by President Vladimir Putin, which makes it illegal to tell children that gay people exist.
Gay pride fines will now be issued against homosexuals in Russia who spread “gay propaganda,” a decision many activist groups believe could essentially ban all public displays of homosexuality.
The bill also prohibits telling them that being LGBT is equal to heterosexuality. For those who violate the law, they can face fines, jail time and people visiting outside of the country will be deported.
Russia has struggled to accept homosexuality, which was only decriminalized in 1993. Anti-gay sentiment remains high, as was seen in a recent attack on a gay man.
