Sharing Their Light: Anna Filosofova and Lesya Ukrainka

Due to current events, we decided to place our heartfelt focus on two women this week--one from Russia and one from Ukraine.

Anna Filosofova Lesya Ukrainka

Anna Filosofova

(1837 to 1912)

Anna Filosofova was born into an aristocratic family in 1837 and became one of Russia’s first women’s rights activists, as well as a social philanthropist.

Her kind heart and profound awareness led her to champion the rights of indentured servants who were forced to serve the wealthy.

She was also effective at stopping the sexual exploitation of female servants.

Anna Filosofova became an effective and tireless advocate for impoverished women knowing that education for women opened the door to their self-empowerment, independence and financial betterment.

In addition to her trailblazing work to liberate women living with the dire effects of lower socioeconomic status, Anna Filosofova, managed to raise six children.

Lesya Ukrainka

(1871-1913)

The poet, writer, activist and interpreter (she spoke 9 languages fluently) Lesya Ukrainka, fought tuberculosis throughout her childhood, which kept her bedridden. Instead of her illness defining or limiting her--her tenacity, creativity and courage grew and flowed from her--many times writing from her bed.

She was co-founder of the literary society "Pleiada," an essayist and playwright.

Leysa Ukrainka was a pioneer of the Ukrainian feminist movement and became a hero to millions whom she motivated to bring forth their own inner strength, be brave and carry on.

Lesya Ukrainka’s image is on the country’s national monetary unit, the hryvnia.

May our sisters Anna Filosofova and Lesya Ukrainka both be remembered and honored for their valuable contributions, which inspired and improved the lives of millions. Thank you, Anna Filosofova and Lesya Ukrainka.