Job Discussion Forums

apugh2003 · Joined: 30 May 2009 Posts: 3

Are there any black teachers in Russia?

Nexus · Joined: 08 Mar 2004 Posts: 189 Location: Moscow

Sashadroogie · Posted: Mon Jan 04, 2010 6:14 pm Post subject:

There are some in Moscow, but not many. Perhaps due to the overt racism from society generally and even from some students. This is a thorny recruitment issue for schools here, as Russia is tough enough to start off in without the added hardship of racial discrimination as practised by the police, or schools own clients. Some schools don't hire as they think the teacher won't last, or would be in danger. Some schools try to inform, delicately, that they should expect 'less than Western standards and attitudes', and other schools say and do nothing at all. It is a no-win situation in a lot of respects.

Not recommended for the faint-hearted.

anglichanka5 · Joined: 06 Apr 2010 Posts: 5

My boyfriend is black and studies in Russia. He's come up against a LOT of problems here even though he tries to stay away from trouble. So beware!

jpvanderwerf2001 · Joined: 02 Oct 2003 Posts: 1117 Location: New York

I am mixed race (white/black), and I've lived in Ukraine and Russia for a total of seven years. I have encountered some insensitive remarks in my time, but haven't yet (knock on wood) been faced with any violence or threats due to race. I'm quite a big guy, so that might have something to do with it.
For darker-skinned blacks, however, I think the situation may be different. Also, I think some areas of Russia are less sketchy than others on this front. It's been my experience here in Vladivostok that being of an Asian persuasion is more of a hassle than being black.
It's my opinion that being friendly, learning some Russian, making local friends, and not expecting to be the victim will go a long way; as will not getting tanked with idiots.
Best of luck, all!