President Obama: “No patience” for anti-LGBT laws in Russia
From: tonightshownbc
President Barack Obama discusses Snowdon, Putin and Russia's anti-lgbt laws
President Barack Obama said Tuesday he has “no patience for countries that try to treat gays or lesbians or transgender persons in ways that intimidate them or are harmful to them.”
Speaking to “Tonight Show” host Jay Leno, the president was asked by the host about recent legislation in Russia that cracks down on gay rights.
“Do you think it will affect the Olympics?” Leno asked the President, whose own views on the subject have evolved in the course of his presidency. Russia is slated to host the Winter Olympics in 2014, in the city of Sochi.
Obama was adamant. “Every judgment should be made on the track, or in the swimming pool, or on the balance beam, and people’s sexual orientation shouldn’t have anything to do with it.”
He also noted Russia’s eagerness for a successful Olympic games, saying "I think they understand that for most of the countries that participate in the Olympics, we wouldn't tolerate gays and lesbians being treated differently.”
This was the first time Obama had commented on Russia’s new anti-LGBT laws, which have come under increasing scrutiny as questions mount about the country’s intentions during the Olympic games
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I’m glad that the Mr. President spoke about it, but I’m still not sure on what to do this time ’round. Boycotting never works and I feel like we should march right on up and stay strong and participate, but then again… if they keep their word.. loads of people could get arrested and fined… or worse!
I love obama,have respect for what the sexuality is of the other!
This whole Russian thing is getting me pissed off more and more. I already had a dislike for Russians and most of their views, but ugh. Wonder how this is going to turn out!