"Russian Pride in the USA". How the Russian-speaking community lives in New York: a report from the pride

In this episode of my "Gay Chat" I invite you to plunge into the atmosphere Pride in New Yorkto figure out together how Russian-speaking gays live in exile and whether it is worth moving here.

I met with a writer Miloslav Chemodanov, who has just published a book about gay life in Russia, talked to the guys who are building a life in Miami, and, of course, could not pass by the bright performances of drag queens, for whom pride is not only a performance, but also a political statement.

Miloslav Chemodanov, journalist and author of the book "A Normal Boy", told me about his experience of living in New York for four years. He said that the book is printed in Serbia, but readers manage to get paper copies even to Russia. Having lived in New York for four years, he calls it a "city for singles", where it is difficult to find love, but it is easy to feel like yourself.

I also met guys who came from Florida. We staged a real battle: Miami vs New York. Some are delighted with the energy of the Big Apple, while others consider it dirty and smelly, preferring a quiet life in Wilton Manors (which, by the way, has become the capital of OnlyFans).

Stas from Ukraine shared his story of relations with the American and gave important advice to all newcomers: Do not look for a green card or a husband purposefully - Work on yourself, be open, and the right people will attract themselves.

My old acquaintance Leo said that everything will work out in America if you "are not lazy and did not come here to hammer drugs in the corners."

Bright Sveta's drag queen turned up the fire, expressing everything she thinks about the Russian regime, and shared her concerns about the possible return of Trump, which could affect the freedom of the LGBT community in the United States.

In conclusion, I talked to Sergey, president of an organization that helps Russian-speaking refugees. We discussed how they support political prisoners in Russia and help newcomers to the United States with housing, jobs and unpaid lawyers. We talked about how LGBT people face the stigma of "extremists" in Russia today, and how important it is not to stand aside while your friends remain in prison.

This video is my personal pride diary. Without gloss, but with great hope that freedom is not just a word from textbooks, but something that we build ourselves, every day, no matter what.