Funds for Oleg

“Oleg is a 49-year-old gay man from Russia who currently resides in San Francisco.  His childhood and much of his adult life in Russia were punctured by homophobic violence.  Despite the near daily abuse he faced in Eastern Russia, Oleg committed himself to advocacy against state violence.  With a friend, he started an independent news platform that supported LGBTQ rights in Russia as well as the democratic insurgency in Ukraine.  His willingness to criticize and challenge the Russian regime eventually led to him being targeted by Russian security forces.  He was forced to quickly flee, leaving behind his family and his partner of approximately 20 years. 

 

Several weeks ago, after a protracted legal process, Oleg was finally granted political asylum in the United States.  However, days after receiving such wonderful news, Oleg was diagnosed with lung cancer. 

 

Oleg does not have any family in the United States.  He has supported himself doing a variety of manual labor and service jobs, and has struggled to make ends meet.  At times, when he could not find work, even during the pendency of his case, he has been homeless. 

 

Now, Oleg fears he will be unable to make his rent again because of the physical toll of treatment and is asking for support. A team of us are fundraising to help him cover at least a few months of rent and food, so that he can have his basic out-of-pocket needs met while he gets the medical care he needs. Kind words of encouragement and support are also welcome, and we will be happy to get any of those notes translated if need be. Any bit you can contribute in solidarity goes a long way.”