LGBTQI+ activist Elya Shchemur dead
LGBTQI+ activist Elya Shchemur was only 21 years old. She died during the bombing of Kharkiv. The Kharkiv Pride association has already issued a statement to that effect. Thus, Elya had been staying near the center of the city when the bombing began, which ultimately brought her death.
The LGBTQI+ activist had reported for duty at a defense office.
Who was Elya Shchemur?
Elya Shchemur was well known within the local scene. The activist always stood up for the rights of the community and took part in many events in the city when it was a matter of defending the values of democracy and carrying their high value to the outside world.
In addition, she stood up for human rights and was also represented at various Prides. In short: a person who may have inspired many - especially within the community. Her services were voluntary. She fought for tolerance, equality and for the community.
Elya Shchemur fought for Ukraine
Just as she volunteered for queer rights, she volunteered to fight for her country and against the attacks from Russia. She was one of the first members of the Kharkiv Pride to volunteer to work directly in the defense office.
Her companions are visibly moved by her death and emphasize never to forget her. At the same time, the association, in which she worked until the end of her life, expressed its condolences to the family and relatives.
Elya is not the only one who lost her life that day. Numerous people fell victim to the attack. Some died, others were seriously injured. Among other things, the fact that the Russian army does not seem to attack "only" military targets in Ukraine is sharply criticized by the international community. And even though such statements in a war are always details that are difficult to verify independently, more and more voices are being raised calling for more detailed investigations on the subject.
Multifaceted help for queers from Ukraine
Meanwhile, there are many queers who have decided to leave Ukraine. Partly out of fear of the war, but partly also because they are afraid of what will come afterwards.
Because: Assuming Russia would win the war militarily and take over the rule in the territories, the probability would be high that the situation for queers in the country would further deteriorate.
In Germany and, among others, also in Switzerland, there are now many people who have specialized in the needs of queer refugees. They show them counseling offers and thus ensure that the best possible conditions for a new start can be created.
Those who are looking for ways to support the people from Ukraine can usually find good information on the pages of cities and municipalities. Here you can find a lot of information about what donations are needed. In some cases, there is also explicit reference to help for queers. Other contact points in this context are LGBTQI+ associations. Many of them have now made contact with activists in Ukraine.
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