The Association for Indigenous Studies of Russia (AISR) is a grassroots, collaborative project spearheaded by graduate students and dedicated to advancing decolonization and Indigenous-centered research on the Indigenous peoples of Russia. We seek to amplify Indigenous voices, center Indigenous perspectives, and challenge colonial and imperial narratives. Through transnational and interdisciplinary collaboration, AISR works to support cultural and linguistic resilience, preserve Indigenous knowledge systems, and build a vibrant scholarly and activist community committed to justice, visibility, and solidarity.
Lack of accessible resources created by native peoples or centering Indigenous perspectives.
Limited global awareness of the diversity, history, and lived experiences of Indigenous peoples in Russia.
Erasure of Indigenous voices in public and academic narratives in Russia.
Dominance of colonial and imperial frameworks in the study of Russian regions and peoples.
Loss of Indigenous languages and cultural heritage due to systemic neglect and assimilation.
Decolonization — Representation — Preservation — Equity — Integrity