Madonna Speaks Out for Gay Rights at Russia Concert, Despite Threats

Clad in black lingerie, Madonna exemplified the words scrawled on her back: "No Fear."

All week headlines predicting protesters and potential violence have surrounded her Aug. 9 concert in St. Petersburg, Russia. When she took to the stage Thursday night, however, the singer was as bold as ever as she spoke in defense of gay rights.

"We want to fight for the right to be free," she said.

The Material Girl urged the crowd to wear the pink wristbands distributed at the door and to "show your love and appreciation to the gay community."

The controversial display is no surprise. Back in March, Madonna was asked to cancel the concert in protest of the country's newly adopted anti-gay regulations, which impose fines on whatever is deemed "homosexual propaganda." Instead, she announced via her Facebook page that she would use her Aug. 9 concert as a platform to support the gay community.

Even though Madonna is continuing her world tour in Finland, it doesn't look like the drama is over yet. Russia Deputy Prime Minister, Dmitry Rogozin spoke out against the actions of the pop star, tweeting, "Every ex-wh*re tends to lecture everybody with age. Especially during world tours and concerts."