Rihanna lends support to gay rights campaign in Russia
By Nick Levine
Rihanna has shown her support for the gay rights campaign in Russia over social media.
The singer, who has over 34 million Twitter followers, tweeted using the #P6 hashtag earlier today (February 16) and linked to a New York Times article called ‘Fashion, Fairness and the Olympics’.
She also shared a picture of herself on Instagram wearing one of Alexander Wang’s limited edition P6 beanie hats – see right.
Wang’s P6 beanie hats are part of the Principle 6 campaign, which aims to “uphold the Olympic principle of inclusion and underscore that Russia’s anti-LGBT discrimination is incompatible with the Olympic movement”.
Proceeds from the sale of all P6 merchandise, including Wang’s beanie hats, will go directly to LGBT advocacy groups in Russia fighting against discrimination and the country’s anti-gay laws.
The fashion designer has said his P6 beanie hats are for “athletes, fans—anyone and everyone who believes in equality and nondiscrimination, both of which are entirely compatible with the spirit of the Olympic Games”.
Equality campaigning group All Out have since tweeted to thank Rihanna for her support, posting: “Whoah. Thank you @rihanna for standing up for #P6 and equality at the Olympics!”
More on Sochi:
> Grindr use triples at Sochi despite anti-gay laws
> Blondie’s Debbie Harry refuses Sochi gig over gay rights
> UN secretary-general condemns Russia over anti-gay laws