This Thursday, August 22 at 2.30pm the Equality Network, the Scottish lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality charity, are joining with award-winning comedian Mark Thomas for a special one-off Edinburgh Festival Fringe gig outside the Russian Consulate [Consulate General of the Russia
This Thursday, August 22 at 2.30pm the Equality Network, the Scottish lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality charity, are joining with award-winning comedian Mark Thomas for a special one-off Edinburgh Festival Fringe gig outside the Russian Consulate [Consulate General of the Russian Federation, 8 Melville St, Edinburgh, EH3 7HF] in Scotland’s capital to protest against escalating LGBT human rights abuses in Russia.
The charity hopes that the free comedy gig will raise awareness of the worsening situation for LGBT people in Russia and will add to mounting international pressure on the Russian government.
The street-stand-up gig is hosted by Mark Thomas, who will be joined by some of the highest profile performers of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, including Stephen K Amos, Susan Calman, Joe Lycett, Zoe Lyons, Dana Alexander and Chris Coltrane, with more top names to be announced.
Scott Cuthbertson, Community Development Coordinator for the Equality Network, said:
“Every day LGBT people in Russia face rising levels of violence and discrimination as a direct result of the actions of the Russian State. LGBT people in Russia have asked the world to support them in their fight for equality and human rights for all. We hope in some small way this comedy gig will raise awareness and add to the mounting pressure on the Russian Government.”
Mark Thomas, said:
“It is a pleasure and privilege to host this LGBT rights street gig. It is important that in the festival we don’t lose sight of the daily struggles for equality and dignity. We stand with LGBT activists and human rights advocates against Russia’s state sponsored homophobia. It will also be a hoot, so come along.”
The street gig comes in the wake of mounting protests around the world. A fortnight ago over 150 protesters joined the Equality Network’s first demonstration outside the Russian Consulate in Edinburgh.
