These are NOT photographs from the Holodomor!

These 13 photos were selected from among photographs most commonly used today to represent the Holodomor, that were in fact originally taken to portray other famines.  12 were taken during the 1921- 1923 famine in Russia and Ukraine; 1 during the 19th c. famine in Madras, India.

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Eight reasons we see photos from other famines misrepresenting the Holodomor.

By Lana Babij, September 22, 2018.

1. The existence of famine during the 1930’s was officially denied by the Soviet Government.  (more)
2. Photography in the Soviet Union was strictly monitored with numerous subjects forbidden.  Cameras and film were inspected at borders and were frequently confiscated. Photographers seen as breaking the rules were arrested and subject to imprisonment.
3. Very few photographs taken secretly by foreigners in order to show evidence of famine were successfully smuggled out of the Soviet Union. (more)
4. The famine of 1921-1923 in Russia and Ukraine was not denied, and foreign assistance was welcomed. Hundred s of photographs were taken by aid workers to document their work and to solicit donations.  Copies of these photos continue to be available in plentiful supply. (more)
5. As early as the mid- 1930’s, some writers have deliberately used 1921-1923 photos in order to give a sense of the similar horrors of the Holodomor, without stating the true sources of the photographs. (more)
6. Since that time, other writers have continued to use these misattributed photographs without questioning their validity.  With the advent of social media for sharing images, the problem has increased. (more)
7. Writers to this day would like to show a picture of what starvation looks like.  (more)
8. To date, there is no comprehensive, easily accessible guide to validated photographs showing evidence of famine during the Holodomor. (more)

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