Peter Tatchell Among 20 Gay Rights Activists Arrested In Moscow

Since the 1970s, the journalist and human-rights activist Peter Tatchell has been a singularly brave and principled voice for justice and human decency. It would be hard to name anyone in left-activist circles, anywhere in the English-speaking world, whose aim has been so true.

When duty calls the Left, whether it's to stand up to Ken Livingstone, to stand against apologetics for terror, or to stand with with the people of Zimbabwe or the people of Iran, Peter stands out from the crowd. He's not one for waivering. If it's brave and loyal friends you'll be needing, you can be certain that no matter how few they turn out to be, Peter will be among them.

Thanks in no small part to Peter's efforts this weekend, European attention is now focussed on the oppression of Russia's gay minority. The ruckus Peter and his friends have caused should focus our attention on the fact that some things are simply non-negotiable. On gay equality, no compromise, but don't think for a moment that this is just about gay rights. It's about freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and liberty for everyone.

Updated.