Official Endorsement for Gold Medal Message Campaign: ZERO TOLERANCE FOR VIOLATIONS OF HUMAN RIGHTS

WINNIPEG, Aug. 28, 2013 /CNW/ - Students in Manitoba are speaking out against Russia's legislation that outlaws 'gay propaganda,' especially as the country prepares to host the 2014 Olympic Games. The Gold Medal Message, an initiative started by student members of the Federation, calls on Olympic athletes to wear a rainbow pin at the 2014 Olympic Games and publicly oppose Russia's homophobic law.

"This legislation criminalizes open and honest discussion about human sexuality with youth," said Lee Chitty, LGBTQQ* Commissioner for the Canadian Federation of Students—Manitoba.  "Steps like these give unofficial State approval for the targeting and assault of queer and trans people. It is shameful that the International Olympics Committee has failed to speak out against these human rights abuses in Russia."

"Youth and students continue to face overt harassment and discrimination on the basis of their sexual orientation both in Russia and right here in Manitoba, " said Bilan Arte, Manitoba Chairperson for the Canadian Federation of Students. "By using the Olympics as a platform to oppose Russia's anti-gay law, athletes from Canada and around the world can send a message that these policies are unacceptable and must be overturned."

SOURCE: Canadian Federation of Students - Manitoba

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Bilan Arte
Chairperson
Canadian Federation of Students- Manitoba
(c) 204-297-7230

Lee Chitty
LGBTTQ* Commissioner
Canadian Federation of Students- Manitoba
(c) 204- 960-6286