In a bold move that has sparked controversy, Russian rapper Nikolai Vasilyev, known by his stage name Vacio, recently found himself at odds with Russia’s stringent anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Vacio’s attendance at a high-profile Moscow party, where he wore nothing but a sock in the style of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, has led to his arrest and conviction.
The party, hosted by social media influencer Anastasia Ivleeva at the Mutabor nightclub, boasted a ‘nude illusion’ theme. It attracted numerous Russian celebrities, all adorning minimalistic attire. However, this gathering soon attracted the ire of Russian officials and pro-Kremlin commentators, amidst the ongoing war with Ukraine. The backlash was swift, with critics decrying the event as a violation of the country’s laws against promoting homosexuality.
Widening the Net of Oppression
This incident is part of a broader crackdown under Russia’s notorious “gay propaganda” law, first introduced by President Vladimir Putin in 2013. The law, under the guise of protecting children, prohibits the promotion of “nontraditional sexual relationships.” Despite its stated intent, it has been widely used to suppress LGBTQ+ activism, media, and even personal expressions, drawing international condemnation.
In late 2022, Putin expanded this law, further limiting public expressions of LGBTQ+ life in Russia. The revised law prohibits any promotion of homosexuality in public spaces, online platforms, or through media and advertising. This has led to increased raids on LGBTQ+ venues, pushing many organizations into hiding. A recent ruling by the Russian Supreme Court, declaring the international gay rights movement as an “extremist organization,” has only exacerbated the situation.