“We, students of the Russian State University for Humanities (RGGU) and concerned citizens express our sincere indignation in connection with the creation of an educational and academic centre named after the far-right philosopher Ivan Ilyin. In the 20th century, Ivan Ilyin actively condoned the activities of the German fascist regime, justified Hitler’s crimes by confrontation with Bolshevism and wrote about the need for Russian fascism. The academic centre of one of the leading universities in the victorious country of fascism cannot bear the name of a supporter of fascist ideas, taking into account the socio-political situation in which our country currently finds itself. The university must remain an abode of knowledge and creativity, free from political conjuncture and propaganda.
We are convinced that Ilyin’s philosophizing has little in common with the values of progressive humanity, just like the fascist idea, which is an unnatural political construct. Several months ago, publicity and public outrage contributed to the suspension of the process – the administration was forced to delete the message about the award to the Ivan Ilyin Science Centre. But that victory of common sense was not final. As it became known from the media and official publications of the university, the Ivan Ilyin Higher School of Politics was approved by order dated 07/04/23 N 01-546/osn. ( vk.cc/cw8DGN ), the leader of this direction was the far-right philosopher Alexander Gelyevich Dugin.
We want to believe that we are not alone in our impulse, and therefore we ask for help from the entire caring progressive public!
We demand to rename the educational and scientific center and arrange a public vote among students for the name of the new Higher School of Politics.
Sign our petition and help spread the information https://chng.it/jWNPGpk8pR You can contact us and help the initiative through public messages. We guarantee confidentiality for students.”
