Sochi mayor Anatoly Pakhomov recently made headlines by claiming that there are no gay people in his home city. While the comment drew more than a few knowing chuckles from westerners, especially those in the United States who’ve seen a parade of right wing politicians and religious leaders denounce homosexuality only to be caught in same-sex scandals themselves.

But is it really funny? Should we be laughing at widespread ignorance that remains prevalant in many parts of the world, and often has dire consequences for members of the LGBT community. Is it funny for those subject to Russia’s new slate of draconian anti-gay laws?

Host: Ana Kasparian

Panel:
Mariana Tosca: Actress, Social Activist (www.MTosca.com)
Jenn Hoffman: Digital Media Strategist
Max Lugavere: Host – Acting Disruptive on AOL