That's how the media called it.
In fact, I just took the LGBT flag to the May 1st procession. I was alone, with a friend running nearby making photos.
I was scared. When I went alone to the column, my friend was not around. I was alone among a bunch of people and took the flag out. Whether they would beat or detain me, lawyer's card was in my bag.
After 10 minutes, my hands are numb, I put them down. The guy comes up.
"Take it away."
"No."
"Take it away, or you know where I'll put it."
"Do not threaten me."
He goes to some guy in a strange uniform, who accompanies the procession. Remember this dude, I'll mention him later.
So, I raise the flag again. Reporter is running around. I intuitively guess where she came from. She's on the cover of the event on their website. They are the ones who called me a gay parade.
I put my hands down again. And here comes another man with the same threats, goes to the same guy.
I pass the police, the flag flutters in the wind. I do not look in their direction, but observe with a lateral sight. No reaction. Whew!
"What's the flag?"
"LGBT people. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender."
"Ew, gross, take it away."
I go further.
I see that dude is coming to the police and pointing at me. I do not hear a dialogue, they are far away, but my friend is right behind them. She retells me later:
"What shall we do with her?"
"Do we need to do something?"
Nice. I love the Yaroslavl police. Everything is calm for the second time.
We reach the square, the end of the procession. I remove the flag and overhear: "That's right, take it away." In a commanding tone. Do they really think I follow their orders?
I consider this a success. Everything is calm, but the fuss was made. What a relief. I'm smoking.
