Russian newspaper editor fined for promoting homosexuality

Alexander Suturin published quote from teacher fired for being gay

A Russian newspaper editor has been fined 50,000 rubles ($1,400) for publishing a direct quote from a geography teacher who was fired for being gay, Gay Star News reports.

By printing the quote — “My very existence is proof being gay is normal” — Alexander Suturin was found guilty of promoting homosexuality to minors.

Prosecutors said Suturin broke “traditional family values” and printed statements “contrary to the laws of logic.” The judge agreed, saying that children who read the article could also be led to believe that serial killers are normal.

Suturin, who is editor of the Molodoi Dalnevostochnik newspaper, is the fourth person to be officially charged for violating the ban on gay propaganda. He plans to appeal the decision to a higher court.

Niko Bell

Niko Bell is a writer, editor and translator from Vancouver. He writes about sexual health, science, food and language.

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