Why "deserve"? Who "deserves" Eurovision? Eurovision isn't for the government, Eurovision is for the people. Russia's LGBTQ population faces a worse situation than in most countries in Europe, and yet they still fight for their rights. They "deserve" a chance to celebrate like this as much as anyone else, and they get far fewer opportunities to do so. They hoped that Sochi would give them international attention and support, but that didn't happen and they were left alone. With Eurovision that couldn't happen because that's what Eurovision is for. Rainbow flags all over the Red Square.
Gagarina placed herself as visibly as she could at the side of Russia's queer population. Her win would have been a sign that the rest of Europe can recognize the positive and progressive in Russia over Russia's oppressive government, which the Russian people are also suffering under, especially the young people. Eurovision in Russia would have built bridges, which is what Eurovision is all about. It was a great opportunity, and I'm sad that it was wasted.
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branchandroot
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Date: 2015-05-24 11:59 am (UTC)Gagarina placed herself as visibly as she could at the side of Russia's queer population. Her win would have been a sign that the rest of Europe can recognize the positive and progressive in Russia over Russia's oppressive government, which the Russian people are also suffering under, especially the young people. Eurovision in Russia would have built bridges, which is what Eurovision is all about. It was a great opportunity, and I'm sad that it was wasted.