A Russian Judge at the Court of St Petersburg ruled on Wednesday that the ban on the city's Pride march back in June was illegal. This historic decision comes hot on the heels of Monday's news concerning the Moscow Court of Appeal, who ruled that the closure last September of the oldest gay club in the Russia's capital was illegal. The club was closed down by the Moscow Prefect, on the grounds of "immorality". Russian LGBT activist Nikolai Alekseev said: "For the first time, Russian courts recognize our right to express ourselves freely in the streets." He added: "I want to share this moment with all those who supported us and followed us over the years. In a country which those abroad often say it is better not do anything since we cannot change minds, it's a sign that change can happen anywhere, as long as one believes and spares no effort. Our right to peaceful protest has been recognised by a Russian court. It's a small victory but the first is always the best." Next year, it is hoped that the 3rd Slavic Pride will be held peacefully in St Petersburg.
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