At a major European political conference Saturday, British rock star Sir Elton John told Ukraine it has “a long way to go” on gay rights. Countries with policies “designed to repress LGBT citizens … hinder economic development,” said John, according to the Associated Press.
The well-known singer and outspoken gay rights activist wore his signature pair of pink glasses while addressing the Yalta European Strategy summit in Kiev. The be-suited businessmen had gathered to discuss how the Ukraine’s fate affects Europe and the rest of the world.
Despite the theme of the summit, John stuck to the topic of gay rights and referred to a gay pride parade held in Kiev recently where 250 people required the protection of 500 police officers.
“This all happened not in some far-away place or some far-away time. This happened right in this very city a few weeks ago,” said John, according to The Telegraph. “So I tell you soberly we have a long way to go.”
“Critical moments exist in the lives of societies and nations,” he continued. “The choice of freedom over repression. Democracy over totalitarianism. Acceptance over hatred. What will be Ukraine’s ethical and moral compass? Your stance on human rights will be a defining characteristic of the new Ukraine.”
The singer argued that countries that protect LGBT rights have a higher gross domestic product per capita than those that do not, and said “so being tolerant and inclusive is not only the morally right thing to do, for the new Ukraine, it’s the smart thing to do,” reported the AP.
“You can bring a great fortune to Ukraine by wrapping your arms around people. Laws which protect human rights are good for business,” said the singer according to the Telegraph. “They promote diversity. They expand the talent pool. They allow employers to hire and retain the best and the brightest.”
John expressed “great affection for the former Soviet republic,” reported the Telegraph, and through the work of the Elton John AIDS Foundation has supported over 40 programs in Ukraine helping people with infected with HIV.
