Video: Tim Stevenson speaks to the media about attending the Sochi Winter Olympics to advocate for the rights of gay athletes, coaches and spectators.
VANCOUVER – The City of Vancouver is responding to Russia’s discrimination against gays and lesbians by proposing to send an openly gay councillor as its official representative for the 2014 Sochi Olympics.
READ MORE: Baird blasts Russia’s ‘hateful’ anti-gay law
Tim Stevenson, who is also the deputy mayor, wants to take a city declaration to Russia so he can ask the International Olympic Committee to recognize the human rights of all athletes.
He says cities vying to host future Olympics should endorse the creation of a pride house as part of their bid.
Stevenson told reporters that Nelson Mandela enshrined sexual orientation in South Africa’s constitution back in the 1990s and that he’s asking organizers of the Winter Olympics to ensure the games are inclusive for everyone.
Stevenson’s motion calls on the IOC and the International Paralympic Committee to include in its charter a non-discrimination clause for sexual and gender identity.
Mayor Gregor Robertson says he supports the motion, which will go to council next week.
Video: Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson speaks about the legacy and importance of Pride House during the 2010 Vancouver Games
READ MORE: It’s okay to be gay at the Olympics as long as you don’t talk about it, says Russia
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