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Madonna: Gay-Rights Activists in Russia to Protest Singer's Concerts

Posted on Mar 22nd 2012 3:00PM by Contessa Gayles

Madonna gay rights activists FilmMagic

Long heralded as a gay icon, Madonna has surprisingly landed herself in hot water with gay-rights activists in Russia. The singer announced her plans to condemn a controversial new Saint Petersburg law banning homosexual propaganda while on stage at her show in the Russian city in August. However, the Saint Petersburg Gay Russia movement is not satisfied with Madonna's plans and are set to "protest against the hypocrisy of pop stars."

The new city-wide legislation in question outlaws reading, writing, speaking or reporting on gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender issues, with transgressors facing fines up to $17,000. In a post on her Facebook page yesterday (March 21) Madonna revealed her plans to protest the law.

"I will come to St. Petersburg to speak up for the gay community and to give strength and inspiration to anyone who is or feels oppressed," she wrote. "I'm a freedom fighter. I don't run away from adversity. I will speak during my show about this ridiculous atrocity."

While Madonna is protesting the law, gay-rights activists will be protesting her! Yury Gavrikov, head of Saint Petersburg's Gay Russia movement insists that Madonna is simply doing too little by speaking out, rather than acting out, against the law. The group plans to protest Madonna's Aug. 9 Saint Petersburg show, as well as her concert in Moscow on Aug. 7.

"If people like Madonna boycott their concerts -- particularly in Saint Petersburg -- that could have economic consequences, and that is important, whilst declarations at concerts mean nothing," he argued in an interview with AFP.

Do you think Madge is doing enough for her gay fans? Tweet us your thoughts @aolmusic.

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