Born: 1943 (Soviet Union)
Biography:
Tatiana Mamonova, also known as Tatyana Mamonova, was born on December 10, 1943, in the Soviet Union. She spent her early years in Leningrad after World War II. Mamonova is widely recognized as the founder of the modern Russian women’s movement and is renowned as a democratic women’s leader, author, poet, journalist, videographer, artist, editor, and public lecturer.
Mamonova’s remarkable journey began when she became the first feminist dissident to be exiled from the Soviet Union in 1980. This pivotal event occurred as she rekindled the flame of the Russian women’s movement. It was during this time that she established her organization, initially named Woman and Russia. This organization became the first non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to promoting the human rights of women from the Soviet Union. The organization connected Russian-speaking women’s voices and needs with the international community, making a significant impact on the women’s movement.
Adding to her influential work, Mamonova edited and published the samizdat Woman and Russia Almanac, which later evolved into Woman and Earth Almanac. This pioneering art and literary journal became the first collection of Soviet feminist writings. Today, it has been translated into 11 languages and published in over 22 countries, making it a crucial resource for feminist scholars worldwide.
Before her exile from St. Petersburg, Russia, Mamonova played key roles within the artistic and journalistic realms. She was the first woman organizer and exhibitor in the non-conformist artist movement in Russia, challenging societal norms and pushing the boundaries of expression. Simultaneously, Mamonova worked as a literary and television journalist with Aurora Publishers, where she had the privilege of collaborating with acclaimed poet Josef Brodsky, among others. Her impactful work in the field earned her recognition and respect.
Mamonova’s dedication to women’s rights and freedom of the press led her to become an associate of the Women’s Institute for Freedom of the Press (WIFP) in 1987. This American nonprofit organization strives to enhance communication between women and connect the public with women-based media. Her involvement further solidified her global influence and commitment to advancing women’s rights and gender equality.
In 1984, Mamonova contributed the piece It’s time we began with ourselves to the anthology Sisterhood Is Global: The International Women’s Movement Anthology, edited by Robin Morgan. Her contribution to this influential collection showcased her profound insights and further solidified her place within the global feminist movement.
Throughout her career, Mamonova continued to make significant contributions to the world. Despite her exile, she persisted in editing and publishing her Almanac, now known as Woman and Earth Almanac. She expanded her organization’s scope and changed its name to Woman and Earth Global Eco-Network. Her dedication to environmental causes and the interconnectedness of women and the Earth earned her a distinct place within the international community.
Mamonova’s impact transcended geographical boundaries. She authored four books in the United States and contributed hundreds of articles and travelogues to prestigious journals, magazines, and newspapers, including The New York Times. Her work shed light on a range of topics, spanning from women’s rights to environmental issues, capturing the attention of audiences worldwide.
Mamonova’s tireless efforts and dedication to raising awareness and promoting women’s rights allowed her to lecture at numerous universities and public organizations across the globe. She even embarked on a national lecture tour with Ms. Magazine, further solidifying her place as a respected leader in the women’s movement. Her passion for advocacy led her on tours throughout Africa, Australia, Japan, the United States, India, South America, the Dominican Republic, Scandinavia, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, and Greece. Amnesty International, Alliance Française, parliaments, labor organizations, and non-governmental organizations provided essential support for her endeavors.
Her artistic talents also found expression as she exhibited her work in over 20 countries, captivating audiences with her unique perspective. Mamonova’s ability to blend artistry, activism, and advocacy established her as a true visionary and multi-faceted force within the realm of women’s rights.