Dancer-actor Mikhail Baryshnikov has released a statement in support of a group opposed to Russia's “gay propaganda” law.

“My life has been immensely enriched by gay mentors, colleagues and friends and any discrimination and persecution of gay people is unacceptable,” Baryshnikov wrote. “Equal treatment of people is a basic right and it is sad that we still have to even speak about this in the 21st century.”

Baryshnikov, 65, gave the statement to the New York-based No More Fear Foundation, which helps LGBT people who are facing persecution in their countries to seek asylum in the United States.

“I salute No More Fear Foundation for stepping in so quickly to provide the much necessary assistance to gay and lesbian people who are fleeing prosecution and help them lead a proud life in their new country.”

The law, approved in June, has provoked worldwide outrage and calls for a boycott of the Winter Olympics to take place in Sochi next year.

(Related: U.S. Olympic Committee adds sexual orientation to charter.)

Other celebrities who have spoken out against the law include Sir Elton John, Cher, Lady Gaga and Tilda Swinton.