Andrukh’s Pride Performance
Bohdan Andrukh, the Ukrainian performer widely recognized by his stage name Andrux, staged a performance at a Pride parade in the United States, dedicating it to singer Iryna Fedyshyn. The move was a direct response to her controversial remarks about the LGBTQ+ community, which had stirred significant public debate. A video of the performance was shared on social media with the caption 'More tender than anything…'. In the footage, Andrux can be seen marching in the parade, holding a Ukrainian flag and wearing a T-shirt featuring Fedyshyn’s image.
The Fedyshyn Controversy
In 2022, Iryna Fedyshyn found herself at the center of a scandal after she publicly stated that being LGBTQ+ was a 'great sin'. Her comments drew sharp criticism from a number of Ukrainian artists, including Melovin, who remarked:
“There is no place for homophobia in a free and democratic country. We are not in Muscovy, Mrs. Fedyshyn.” — Melovin
As a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, Andrux has been organizing charity concerts in the United States to raise funds for Ukrainian troops. He also created a Ukrainian-language cover of Iryna Bilyk’s song 'Nas Nema', which became one of the most popular music videos on Ukrainian YouTube after its release. This Pride parade performance underscores his stance on equality and human rights, especially in light of Fedyshyn’s divisive statements.
The event highlights the ongoing and important conversation around LGBTQ+ rights in Ukraine and globally. It also illustrates how Ukrainian artists are using their platforms to advocate for social change and equality. By actively engaging the Ukrainian diaspora abroad, Andrux aims to shift public attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community and push back against homophobia in society.