The theme of this thread is very interesting, as should be any constructive discussion.
Dear MrMonkey your arguments are more than correct and irrefutable. No denying the sad political and cultural situation that reigns in Russia. But need to start somewhere at to pickaxe this wall surrounding the unfortunate Russian gay.
You and I live in two historically fascist country, been allies during the war with the Third Reich. therefore, far from the reality of other Western countries.
Until a few years ago in Italy was almost impossible to speak of social rights to the LGBT community, in which the opione public was strongly opposed to gay unions(mind you, I speak of sun unions).
In recent years, forced to do the voice, this community, thanks to the web, bought visibility and even most citizens seem to have become aware that there is a minority so far kept hidden, marginalized and subjected to harassment and violence.
The last reliable survey, carried out in a neutral way, gave a surprising result, even 57 percent of respondents, is in favor of gay marriage, not unions gay, but as I said, marriage, this despite stiff and strong opposition from the Vatican.
So you see, to make their voices heard, can serve to awaken the consciences of open minds.
I am also pessimistic of positive results in the short term in Russia, but you have to start somewhere.
I think this is a good opportunity to do so.