Exploring the LGBTQ Experience in Ukraine During the War

New Insights into the LGBTQ Community in Ukraine Amidst Conflict

Journalist J. Lester Feder has released a captivating new book that delves into the experiences of LGBTQ Ukrainians during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Titled "The Queer Face of War: Portraits and Stories from Ukraine," this book presents a series of interviews and photographs that bring to light the struggles and resilience of LGBTQ individuals in a war-torn nation.

Feder traveled extensively across Ukraine, including the capital city of Kyiv, to document these personal stories. Among those featured is Olena Hloba, a co-founder of Tergo, a support group for parents and friends of LGBTQ individuals. Olena was forced to flee her home in Bucha, a suburb of Kyiv, shortly after the conflict erupted in February 2022. The suburb witnessed horrific acts of violence, including the murder of civilians by withdrawing Russian soldiers.

Olena Shevchenko, the chair of the Ukrainian LGBTQ rights group Insight, contributed by writing the book's forward. The book also highlights the story of Viktor Pylypenko, a gay man who served in the Ukrainian military. Assigned to the 72nd Mechanized Black Cossack Brigade, Pylypenko participated in crucial battles, playing a pivotal role in defending Kyiv and liberating territories near Kharkiv.

Pylypenko served primarily as a medic, witnessing the brutal realities of war firsthand. He described the harrowing experiences of losing comrades and the personal sacrifice involved in caring for wounded soldiers. Despite facing online harassment from a former commander after coming out, Pylypenko received support from others in the military, illustrating the complexities of serving as an openly LGBTQ individual in the armed forces.

Another powerful narrative comes from Diana and Oleksii Polukhin, residents of Kherson, a southern port city that was briefly occupied by Russian forces. The couple endured significant hardship during the occupation, including torture and demands to disclose the identities of other LGBTQ people in the area. Oleksii Polukhin's case became the first reported instance of LGBTQ persecution by Russian forces to be brought before Ukrainian prosecutors.

Feder, who has Ukrainian heritage, began visiting Ukraine in 2013. His work with humanitarian organizations led to a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ Ukrainians, which include military service requirements, access to hormone therapy, and the need for identity documents reflecting their gender.

"All of these were components of a queer experience of war that was not well documented, especially with photographs," Feder explained. His book aims to bring visibility to these issues, not only within Ukraine but in the broader context of similar conflicts in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.

Feder also addresses the broader geopolitical implications of the war, noting Russia's history of anti-LGBTQ policies. Since 2013, laws banning the "promotion of homosexuality" to minors have been in place, and the Russian Supreme Court recently labeled the "international LGBT movement" as extremist. In contrast, Ukraine has been working towards aligning with European values, including tackling discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed support for civil partnerships for same-sex couples, reflecting a commitment to LGBTQ rights. Feder sees the struggle for LGBTQ rights in Ukraine as part of a larger narrative about defending democratic values against authoritarian regimes.

"The crackdown on LGBT rights inside Russia was essentially a laboratory for attacking democratic values," Feder commented. "It's a strategy being used not only in Ukraine but globally, and understanding this history is crucial."

Feder emphasizes the need for awareness and action, both within Ukraine and internationally, to support LGBTQ communities and safeguard democratic principles. His book serves as a testament to the courage and perseverance of those who continue to fight for their rights in the face of adversity.