Russian Pride Propaganda

As many readers should know, the situation in Russia (and Eastern Europe in general) has been bleak lately for our Gay brethren and sisters. Between attacks by Neo-Nazis and even the homophobia of many so-called “Leftists”, Russian Queers are in a dismal state of occupancy with few allies willing to help in their struggle. After all, when the overwhelming sentiment on the ground is that “gay propaganda” must be “contained”, so as to not affect the children (won’t somebody think of the children?!”– re young boys– any Queer activist knows that something must be done to counteract the hate and reactionaries.

While it is but a small step, a group of anonymous Russian artists has embarked on an interesting mission. Subverting the “gay propaganda” skit used by reactionaries, this collective of artists has repurposed Soviet-era propaganda posters for use in the equality movement. Dubbing their creation “Pride Propaganda”, these re-worked posters take the national-chauvunism held by many contemporary Russian nationalists and inverts the core idea to indicate homosexual love and acceptance.

Below are some examples:

Father, mother, the whole family!

Queer workers lead the way!

Shout it to the sky, you love of labor and yourself!

Pride extends even to the skies!

Every school boy and girl should be able to be proud of who they are in the school-place, without fear of attack from reactionaries.

A vibrant reminder that proud Queers are part of the working class as well, and must assert themselves for their right of inclusion!

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