Madonna, Katy Perry Launch #GayPropaganda on Eve of Olympics

Katy Perry and Madonna have teamed up to release the (We Are) #GayPropaganda PSA "The Peace Sign" to weigh in on the recent controversies concerning Russia’s laws that prohibit anything considered "propaganda" in support of gay rights.

This digital initiative uses the hashtag #GayPropaganda to raise support from around the world for those who have fallen victim to prejudice and hatred in the region. By posing the question “What does gay propaganda look like to you?” the effort aims to redefine the nature of the term as well as give members a chance to make their voices heard.

Perry has been working with #ArtForFreedom, a global arts initiative founded by Madonna and Vice Magazine, to spread awareness of human rights violations. Each piece of art aims to answer the question, “What does freedom mean to you?” and a new work is posted on the community's website each day.

The (We Are) #GayPropaganda movement will have a big moment with the impending Olympic games being held in Sochi, Russia. The PSA series shows artistic recreations of images of gay Russian citizens being accosted by police. Driving home the message, they close with the words "To you they are just pictures. To them it is real life. Be the antidote to hate. Join the movement."

There will no doubt be many calls to keep the Olympics free of controversy. But they won't be coming from Katy Perry or Madonna.

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