Russia bans men's field hockey, claiming it promotes LGBT propaganda.

The Russian Ministry of Sports has banned men's field hockey, claiming it promotes LGBTQ+ values. This decision was made based on an expert review by the Ministry of Health and a proposal from a group of lawmakers. The ban highlights the growing crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights and expression in Russia.

The Ministry of Health's review argues that hockey in Russia traditionally refers to the sport played on ice. They say that playing a sport similar to hockey on grass goes against Russian traditions. This argument seems to be based on a narrow interpretation of the word \"hockey\" and ignores the international recognition of field hockey.

The review also points out that field hockey originated in Scotland, where men traditionally wear kilts. They categorize kilts as female clothing and therefore inappropriate for men to wear. This reasoning disregards the cultural significance of kilts in Scottish heritage and enforces harmful gender stereotypes.

The Ministry of Health concludes that men wearing skirts while playing field hockey constitutes LGBTQ+ propaganda. This claim links athletic uniforms to sexual orientation in a discriminatory and unfounded manner. The ban on men's field hockey represents an alarming example of how the Russian government uses LGBTQ+ propaganda laws to censor and suppress any form of expression deemed non-traditional.

As a result of these findings, the Ministry of Sports has prohibited all men's field hockey matches within Russia. This decision has drawn criticism for its arbitrary nature and infringement on the freedom of sports participation. It remains to be seen what impact this ban will have on athletes and the future of field hockey in Russia.