New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

E is for Elena (Yelena) Klimova

[one woman, who saved tens of thousands of lives by creating an online community]
E is for Elena (Yelena) Klimova

“Children 404” saved my life. “Children 404” saved my friend’s life. He and I are both thriving and growing these days thanks to Elena. Her brain-child, “Children 404,” was founded in 2013 to provide support for queer teenagers in Russia and other Russian-speaking places. In 2013, I was a Russian queer teenager, lost and (very, very) sad. Then, I found Elena’s page. 

“Children 404” saved thousands of lives and I wish somebody was keeping count to show how much her work means. I’m grateful and proud to be a part of this beautiful sea of people.

On June 1, 2019, I went public about my gender identity. “I am non-binary.” “I am transgender.” I am yelling from a rooftop. I love the sound of my voice as I say these words. 

Right after, I sent a message of love to the “Children 404” web page. Because they deserve all the love in the entire universe. Because I did too when I was a “404 kid.” Because they aren’t mistakes. Because I was never one, either.

Email Anna-Dmitry at [email protected].

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About the Contributor
Anna-Dmitry Muratova
Anna-Dmitry Muratova, Under the Arch Managing Editor
Finley  comes from Moscow, Russia! They're a junior studying Journalism and Environmental Studies and it's their fifth semester at WSN. Finley loves all things inclusive, sex. ed., ecology and advocacy for a whole bunch of stuff. They'd love to chat with you if you want to write for Under the Arch! Find them @veryawkwardfinley on Instagram. :-)

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