Russia Dismantles Steve Jobs Memorial Citing 'Gay Propaganda'

Russia dismantled a memorial that was erected in 2013 to the late Apple Inc. founder Steve Jobs in a St. Petersburg square, citing the need to abide by a law combating “gay propaganda.” The decision came, following Jobs’ predecessor Tim Cook’s announcement last week that he is gay. 

“After Apple CEO Tim Cook publicly called for sodomy, the monument was taken down to abide to the Russian federal law protecting children from information promoting denial of traditional family values,” a statement issued by ZEFS released on Monday read, according to NBC News. 

ZEFS is the group responsible for the Jobs’ monument. “In Russia, gay propaganda and other sexual perversions among minors are prohibited by law.” The group noted that the memorial had been located “in an area of direct access for your student and scholars.” 

Last year, President Vladimir Putin signed a law prohibiting “gay propaganda” among minors into approval, notes NBC. His decision prompted outrage and protests in many parts of the West.

Follow Adelle Nazarian on Twitter @AdelleNaz.