This is the second edition of a zine with personal stories about discrimination against trans people in militant Russia. We released the first edition a year ago and a month after its publication, in November 2023, the Russian authorities declared LGBT people an extremist movement. Police raided friendly clubs, domestic violence increased in homes, and a nervous atmosphere of hostility and mistrust grew in society. Of course, the persecution of LGBT people is explained by the protection of family values, and the stories we collected during the monitoring are clear evidence of the cynicism of this approach. But they also show us the resilience and hope that trans people retain within themselves.

A little earlier, in July 2023, medical and legal transition was completely banned in Russia. The cases included in this zine span the period from that ban until the end of 2024. It may seem like Russia has always been an unfriendly place for LGBT people, and in many ways it is, but before this ban, trans people in Russia had access to one of the most progressive legal gender recognition procedures in Europe for several years. Everything changed very quickly, and for many people it was a huge blow to their lives, safety, relationships with the outside world, dreams and future. It reminds us again of the fragility of human existence: many trans people in Russia have had to change their lives significantly against their will, some have had to flee their homes, and others have found cruelty in people closest to them.

What do we do to counter this all-pervasive fragility? We find refuge in togetherness, in supporting each other and in maintaining a kind heart. Most of us seem to know how important it is to speak up and be heard when something bad (and good) happens to us. It is also nice to be with someone, sharing their experience with them. In essence, this is what makes us human.

That is why it is important for us that the voices of trans people from Russia continue to be heard. We invite you to witness their stories.