This is the video Russian leaders don’t want you to see.

The provocative new video from All Out addresses what it will mean to be an openly gay athlete in the Russian-held Winter Olympics of 2014.  From the video’s website:

Russia is in the midst of a violent crackdown against lesbian, gay, bi and trans people—fueled by laws that make it a crime to be open about who you are and who you love.

The countdown is on for Russia’s winter Olympics and, very soon, all eyes will be on them.

The Olympic games are our best chance to end to Russia’s outrageous anti-gay laws—but to do it, it’s going to take lots more of us to hear about what’s happening in Russia.

Watch this beautiful 2-minute video, and please share it with your family and friends. You can also sign the petition here.

#LoveAlwaysWins, a two minute video, was launched by All Out this week. The video explores what the 2014 Olympic games could be like for gay and lesbian Olympians during the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, Russia under Russia’s anti-gay “propaganda” laws.

“This video is helping thousands of people see how Russia’s anti-gay laws are totally at odds with the Olympic Charter’s ban on discrimination,” Andre Banks Executive Director and Co-Founder of All Out said. “The video has also sparked intense debate among Russians about the anti-propaganda law. Some displayed intense hatred, while many stepped up to defend their gay and lesbian friends and neighbors. Hearts and minds are changed when people around the world engage their friends and family in these important conversations about what it means to be lesbian, gay, bi, and trans.”

The film was directed by All Out’s UK based Creative Lead and award winning director of Homecoming, Mike Buonaiuto. Buonaiuto contacted me directly through Facebook a few days ago to bring this video to my attention. As a blogger, I receive many, many  suggestions and tips from others on writing topics, but this is the first time I’ve felt honored to have been contacted. It’s my deepest pleasure to bring this mindful and powerful video to the attention of elephant journal readers. About All Out:

In 76 countries it is a crime to be gay; in 10 it can cost you your life. All Out is mobilizing millions of people and their social networks to build a powerful global movement for love and equality. Our mission is to build a world where no person will have to sacrifice their family or freedom, safety or dignity, because of who they are or who they love.

Bonus: behind the scenes footage. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LohbLngrlCg

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Ed: Bryonie Wise