Winter Olympics Google Doodle takes stand for gay rights

MANILA, Philippines – Google Doodles are artistic renderings of the Google logo usually done in commemoration of a holiday or event. But one put up on Friday, February 7, to commemorate the start of the 22nd Winter Olympic Games is also a bold statement for gay rights.

The retro-styled logo illustrates 6 athletes representing 6 Winter Olympic disciplines (skiing, hockey, curling, bobsledding, figure skating, snow boarding) atop a gay pride flag. At the bottom of the page is a quote from the Olympic Charter that speaks up against “discrimination of any kind.”

“The practice of sport is a human right. Every individual must have the possibility of practicing sport, without discrimination of any kind and in the Olympic spirit, which requires mutual understanding with a spirit of friendship, solidarity and fair play.” –Olympic Charter

This year’s Winter Olympics takes place in Russia, a nation heavily criticized for what is perceived to be anti-gay laws. In 2013, Russia enforced a ban on providing information on “non-traditional sexual relations” to anyone under the age of 18.

Last January, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that homosexuals are welcome in Sochi, “Just leave kids alone, please.”

The Olympic Charter says “any form of discrimination with regard to a country or a person on grounds of race, religion, politics, gender or otherwise is incompatible with belonging to the Olympic Movement.”

International Olympic Committe (IOC) President Thomas Back says the IOC stands against “any kind of discrimination.” Responding to journalist’s questions, Bach said he is “open for discussion” about expanding the language to include sexual orientation.

The Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics runs from February 7-23 this year. The Winter Paralympics follows from March 7-16.  – Rappler.com