Westside : GAY SUPPORT

Coming out can be difficult for gays and lesbians but can be even harder for immigrants from Russia, where homosexuality can lead to a five-year prison sentence.

The West Hollywood Lesbian and Gay Advisory Council has formed a new support group to help homosexual Russian natives understand that being gay is not a crime in the United States. The group formed last week with just a few members, and the council is looking for more.

“They’re out there,” said Richard Ryan, deputy for West Hollywood City Councilman Steve Martin. “But because of the homophobia that many experienced in the Soviet Union, they may be afraid to self-identify.”