Dutch brass band may play ‘YMCA’ at Sochi Olympics speed skating to signal support for gays

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – A Dutch brass band that has for years amused crowds at Olympic speed skating ovals says it may play songs like the Village People’s “Y.M.C.A.” at the Sochi Winter Olympics as a signal of its support for gay rights.

It remains to be seen how Russian authorities would react should the band, Kleintje Pils, play a song widely considered to be a gay anthem.

A ban on propaganda about “nontraditional sexual relations” signed into law by Russian President Vladimir Putin has provoked widespread international outrage from critics who believe it discriminates against gays.

Band leader Ruud Bakker said Tuesday they could play “Y.M.C.A.” as “a signal” but added that the band doesn’t want to turn its performances into a “political game.”