Wednesday, September 04, 2013

Nyet: SF Opera Won't Dedicate Opening Nite to Gay Russians


A reminder that we're holding a fun and informational vigil this Friday, September 6 at 7:00 pm on the sidewalk outside the War Memorial Opera House, before the gala opening night festivities start. Please join us and also like the Facebook event page.

Click here to read the request from Gays Without Borders and BoycottRussiaVodka.com to David Gockley, the director of the SF Opera company. We had asked that the evening be dedicated in solidarity with LGBT citizens of Russia. Here's his letter, in full:

Dear Melanie, Michael, and Robbie,  

I thank you for your email and the request for the dedication of Friday night's opera performance.

Over the years we have received a number of similar requests, some to officially to embrace causes for which we individually have had great empathy.  

Yet, when it got down to it we have firmly taken the position that the mission of the company is the presentation of operatic performances and not about the political or moral conduct of sovereign nations, or taking public stands on issues in general.  

As an organization we have always embraced a workforce of individuals from all races, religions and sexual orientations.

We support your right to have an informational picket line and offer our help in facilitating it any way we can.

Kind regards,  
David Gockley

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