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Elena GrigorievaRussian anti-war activist
Date of Birth: 01.01.1979
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Content:
Early Life and Education
Elena Grigorieva was born on June 21, 1979, in the city of Novgorod, Russia. She studied art restoration at the S.V. Rachmaninoff Art College from which she graduated in 2001.
Political Activism
Grigorieva initially held right-wing, nationalist views, becoming involved in the nationalist movement in her hometown. She was known for her participation in Russian marches and was a leader of the local branches of the Nationalists Party and Artpodgotovka in 2016-2017.
However, following the annexation of Crimea by Russia and the war in Donbas, Grigorieva's views shifted. She became disillusioned with the nationalist movement and turned to advocating for human rights and freedoms.
Grigorieva protested against the war in Ukraine, the raising of the retirement age, and the "Platon" tax on truck drivers. She also supported the Khachaturian sisters, participated in the Group for Assistance to Detainees, and various protest movements.
LGBTQ+ Activism
Grigorieva came out as bisexual and as a person living with hepatitis C in early 2019. She became an active LGBTQ+ advocate, joining the Alliance of Heterosexuals and LGBTQ+ for Equality and the Democratic Movement Solidarity.
Threats and Harassment
Grigorieva faced threats from homophobic groups and individuals. Her personal information was posted on the website of a homophobic group called "Saw Against LGBTQ+."
Murder
On the night of July 21, 2019, Elena Grigorieva was found dead near her apartment building with stab wounds and signs of strangulation. Alexey Volnyanko, a previously convicted drug offender, was arrested and charged with her murder.
Response
Grigorieva's murder shocked and saddened the Russian public and the LGBTQ+ community. She was featured in media outlets as a prominent figure who fought for human rights and equality.