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Introduction
Russia, a country that spans across two continents, is known for its diverse population. People from various ethnic backgrounds live in the country, including those with African ancestry. However, the history of Black people in Russia is not well known, and the black population in Russia is often overlooked. This blog post aims to shed light on the black population in Russia, their history, their current situation, and their contribution to Russian society.
The History of Black People in Russia
The presence of Black people in Russia dates back to the 16th century when the first Africans arrived in Moscow as diplomatic envoys. These envoys were sent by the Ethiopian Emperor to establish trade relations with the Tsarist court. Over the next few centuries, the number of Black people in Russia increased due to slavery and trade with Africa. During the reign of Peter the Great, Black people were brought to Russia as slaves to work on his construction projects. However, slavery was abolished in Russia in 1861, and the black population in the country dwindled.
The Soviet era saw a resurgence of the black population in Russia. In the 1920s and 1930s, the Soviet government recruited Africans to study in Soviet universities and work in the country. Many of these African students and workers later settled in Russia and started families. Today, the black population in Russia is estimated to be around 40,000, with most living in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
The Black Population in Russia Today
The black population in Russia faces various challenges, including racism and discrimination. Black people in Russia often face verbal and physical abuse, and they are often targeted by law enforcement. In a 2014 survey conducted by the Moscow Bureau for Human Rights, over 40% of Black people living in Russia reported experiencing discrimination based on their skin color.
Black people in Russia also face difficulties in finding work and housing. Many employers and landlords are reluctant to hire or rent to Black people, making it challenging for them to find suitable employment or housing.
Despite these challenges, the black population in Russia has made significant contributions to Russian society. Black people have excelled in various fields, including sports, music, and the arts. Notable black Russians include the boxer Khabib Nurmagomedov, the musician Diana Arbenina, and the model Alina Baikova.
The Future of the Black Population in Russia
The future of the black population in Russia is uncertain. While the government has taken some steps to address racism and discrimination, more needs to be done to ensure that Black people in Russia can live without fear of discrimination and violence. One positive step was taken in 2020 when the Moscow city government announced plans to open a new cultural center for the black community.
However, the Russian government needs to do more to promote diversity and inclusion. Policies that promote equality and diversity need to be implemented, and education programs should be developed to raise awareness about racism and discrimination. Only by working together can we create a society that is inclusive and respectful of all people, regardless of their skin color.
Conclusion
The black population in Russia has a long and complex history. While the black population in Russia is relatively small, they have made significant contributions to Russian society. However, Black people in Russia still face various challenges, including racism and discrimination. The Russian government needs to do more to address these challenges and promote diversity and inclusion. By working together, we can create a society that is inclusive and respectful of all people.
