“I realized that there would be no bullying”
In our 2023 survey, we interviewed over 4400 LGBTQ+ Russians. 31% have reported facing discrimination at their place of work because of their queerness.
But among the responses, there were quite a few that detailed positive experiences, and we’re happy to share a few of them with you!
“The logistician in our organization is a woman, and she asked me not to quit after I changed my documents. There were some issues, but she was able to convince everyone to keep me [in my position].”
Gay transgender woman, 39, Voronezh region
“Six months ago I worked at Pyaterochka [a grocery store] and heard from colleagues that employees of other stores were constantly approaching them and asking about my sexuality. But I was lucky to work in a team of good people: the manager simply dismissed everyone who asked in a rather rude manner, arguing that this did not concern them.After that, I realized that everything was fine and there would be no bullying. In any case, I did not tell anyone at work about my sexuality, and such protection from higher management was very pleasant.”
Gay cisgender man, 23, Krasnodar region
So while being LGBTQ+ in Russia can be difficult in any setting, there are also examples of the opposite. It makes us incredibly happy to hear positive stories from queer Russians, and it’s unfortunate that they’re so hard to come by.
But we know that our work, as well as the work of other LGBTQ+ activists and the resilience of Russian queer people, will help us achieve what we all need — equal rights for the whole LGBTQ+ community in Russia.
If you want to support us in our fight, consider supporting our fundraiser for the work of ComingOut’s legal team— any amount is greatly appreciated 🤍