Gay athlete says uproar over Russian anti-gay laws overblown
- 10 years ago
Austrian ski jumper Daniela Iraschko-Stolz, who lives openly as a lesbian, says the uproar over Russia's treatment of gay people has been excessive
SOUNDBITE: Austrian Ski Jumper Daniela Iraschko-Stolz Saying (German):
"I think that it has been blown out of proportion compared to what it is. I had a very good welcome like every other athlete. There were absolutely no problems."
She acknowledges that her experience as a visitor is likely very different from those who live here.
Under Russia's controversial anti-gay propaganda law, it is illegal to publicly support gays and lesbians or to distribute materials about homosexuality to minors.
As for criticism of Moscow's policies, she thinks actions not words are more effective.
SOUNDBITE: Austrian Ski Jumper Daniela Iraschko-Stolz Saying (German):
"I only want to focus on sports and I think if you're tolerant towards everyone else they treat you the same way and it gives you a lot of joy."
Fo
SOUNDBITE: Austrian Ski Jumper Daniela Iraschko-Stolz Saying (German):
"I think that it has been blown out of proportion compared to what it is. I had a very good welcome like every other athlete. There were absolutely no problems."
She acknowledges that her experience as a visitor is likely very different from those who live here.
Under Russia's controversial anti-gay propaganda law, it is illegal to publicly support gays and lesbians or to distribute materials about homosexuality to minors.
As for criticism of Moscow's policies, she thinks actions not words are more effective.
SOUNDBITE: Austrian Ski Jumper Daniela Iraschko-Stolz Saying (German):
"I only want to focus on sports and I think if you're tolerant towards everyone else they treat you the same way and it gives you a lot of joy."
Fo