FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Join us for a candlelight vigil to show support and solidarity for those affected by the atrocities in Chechnya, and to
urge our government to take action. We are standing for LGBTQIA+ rights worldwide, we want humans everywhere to be safe
and respected and are calling for further investigation and awareness for the cause.
Wellington Event - Wellington Russian Embassy, 57 Messines Rd, Karori, 7pm - 9pm 18th April 2017
Auckland Event - Aotea Square, Auckland CBD 6pm - 9pm 18th April 2017
Gay men arrested in a ‘purge’ in the Russian region of Chechnya are being held in concentration camp-style prisons.
Russian newspapers and human rights groups report that more than 100 gay men have been detained “in connection with
their non-traditional sexual orientation, or suspicion of such” as part of a purge. Several people were also reportedly
feared dead following violent raids.
In a chilling response, a Chechen government spokesperson denied that there are any gay people to detain, insisting that
“you can’t detain and harass someone who doesn’t exist in the republic”. The Kremlin denied any knowledge of a purge.
But reports have since emerged that the men arrested are being kept in horrific concentration camp style prisons, where
violent abuse and torture is common.
We are holding a vigil of support for those affected by this terrible event.
Please join us for a peaceful candlelight vigil and lend your support to the growing number of voices around the world
demanding action against these horrific acts.