Google's Gay-Rights Doodle Takes Aim At Russia

The Sochi Winter Olympics officially kicked off today — and of course, not without a slew of controversies. Noted as one of the most costly games in history, the event has been riddled with issues, from expensive high-security tactics to the oppression of gay-rights activities for athletes. While many companies have spoken out against this regulation, tech behemoth Google is making a major statement about the aforementioned by debuting a powerful Google Doodle that speaks volumes about Russian leaders’ decision to ban “gay propaganda.”

Google debuted the illustration yesterday afternoon (in time for Russia to see it in the AM) that depicts a slew of winter sports in front of a rainbow-colored backdrop. The text below the Doodle, taken directly from the Olympic Charter reads: “The practice of sport is a human right. Every individual must have the possibility of practicing sport, without discrimination of any kind and in the Olympic spirit, which requires mutual understanding with a spirit of friendship, solidarity, and fair play.” While Google declined to comment, the heartfelt and inspiring display is the only discussion needed.