'Love Is Not a Crime' Campaign Fights Gay Chechen Persecution

As the persecution of gay men in Chechnya continues, Scoop Models, Won Hundred and Amnesty International are joining forces to make a powerful statement and directly support the victims. Together, they've created a t-shirt that reads, "Love Is Not a Crime," which will launch August 3rd with all profits benefitting Amnesty International, an organization that tackles human rights violations in the U.S. and abroad.

"Abuse of homosexuals [is] occurring in many places around the world, but in Chechnya we can see that it is a targeted hunt with its only purpose to attack all homosexual men," says Helle Jacobsen, campaign director at Amnesty International. "That is why it is crucial that Denmark and other countries not only put pressure on Russia and Chechnya, but also offer help to the desperate men in severe danger."

Sune Palner, creative director at Scoop, punctuates Jacobsen's statement, adding, "In a organization like SCOOP Models where sexual orientation isn't on the agenda, it's incomprehensible that there hasn't been more focus on this matter. That's why we really want to join in to raise attention on this problem."

The exclusive tees will be sold for 250 DKK (or approximately $40) on wonhundred.com and amnesty.dk. Keep clicking for the full campaign, which was shot by Marco Van Rijt and features Scoop models.

(Pictured Above): Alexander & Martin (July 3rd, 10:00 AM)