I know that it takes sponsors to make Pride happen, but to sell-out to Stoli – a Russian vodka – is mind-blowing! Just a few months ago, gay bars here in Vancouver and elsewhere were pouring out Russian vodka and refusing to serve it. NOTHING has changed in Russia in terms of gay rights since the Sochi games; in fact, with the eyes of the world no longer focused on the games in Russia, it could be argued that they’re worse. Protestors during the Sochi games were whipped – yes, WHIPPED! How dare we turn a blind eye to that so soon in the name of the almighty dollar?! Shame on you, Vancouver Pride, for allowing Stoli vodka to whitewash things in Russia with a meagre sponsorship!
