Social Activism in Soviet and Post-Soviet Russia

Session Submission Type: Panel

Brief Description

Despite the danger of repression, activists in the Soviet and post-Soviet era in Russia have worked both with and against the government to advance their causes. This panel explores a range of types of activism in the Soviet and post-Soviet Russia: from environmental activism in the Soviet Union, to disabled veteran activists in the 1990s, to trans activism in the present. The panel will explore the possibilities and constraints for social activism, the specific strategies activists developed, activist identities, and the relationship of activists to power.

Sub Unit

• History: Since 1990

Chair

• Julie Hessler, U of Oregon

Papers

• Activist Identities and Attitudes towards Activism among Russian-speaking Transgender People - Yana Kirey-Sitnikova, Uppsala U (Sweden)

• Organized Crime as Mutual Aid in 1990s Russia - Emily Hoge, Clemson U

• Environmental Activism and Youth Education - Mirjam Voerkelius, U of Maryland, Baltimore County

Discussant

• Julie Hessler, U of Oregon