Hello. My name is Zhenya.

Since 2016, I have been running blogs in support of LGBTQ+ people on Yandex.Zen and VKontakte. These blogs were shut down for what was described as “violations of content rules.”

This website is, in essence, a carefully preserved archive of my earlier texts, along with new publications for those to whom this feels close and important.

I am a non-binary and bisexual person. Over the years of my life in Russia, I have had to go through many difficult experiences — from physical violence by people with “traditional values” to extortion by the police, threats to expose my identity, and losing jobs because of homophobia. Despite all of this, I managed to preserve my humanity, my ability to think clearly, and my desire not to respond to harm with harm.

I do not consider a respectful and thoughtful approach to be self-censorship. My sincere intention is to build real bridges between LGBTQ+ people and those who hold traditional views. That is why, in my blog, I consciously avoid provocations, aggression, and insults. I also proceed from the reality of modern Russia, where belonging to the LGBTQ+ community can pose a direct threat to one’s life and safety. For this reason, I never call for actions that could put you at risk.

I do not earn money from this project. There are no “donate” buttons here, because I work honestly and do not need financial contributions. Everything you see on this website is made from the heart and out of a desire to make the world, at least a little, a better place.

At times, you may encounter ideas here that you do not agree with — and that is normal. My goal is not to please everyone, but to help people grow, think, and step by step build a healthier and more humane society in Russia.

I do not believe in the effectiveness of pride parades in the Russian context. In countries where authorities respond to civic pressure, they serve as a tool for protecting minority rights. In Russia, however, power operates differently: it relies on populism and almost always chooses to pressure minorities in order to gain the support of the majority. This is not only about specific politicians or names — this logic is reproduced again and again. History shows that without external pressure and international support, the situation of LGBTQ+ people in Russia is unlikely to change for the better over the next several generations. The same has happened to other minorities — ethnic, cultural, and religious.

I believe in a different path: careful, consistent pressure on elites from the civilized world, and gradual public education without personal risk for ordinary people. In daily, quiet work that over time will prepare the ground for change — for the moment when Russia will have its own Harvey Milk, and openness and mass coming-outs will become possible and safe.

I want you and me — each in our own place — to help prepare Russia for a shift in paradigm regarding LGBTQ+ people. So that one day people will sincerely not understand why we once could not openly speak about ourselves and defend our rights.

I wish you and all your loved ones a good day.

You can contact me by email: zhenya.ilinykh@gmail.com