Escaping American Culture: The Huffmans’ Journey
Two years ago, Derek and DeAnna Huffman were eager to leave Humble, a suburb of Houston. They believed that public education and mainstream media were influencing their three daughters to embrace LGBTQ rights and felt that American culture no longer afforded white people the same opportunities as other races.
Seeking a Like-Minded Community
The couple sought a community aligned with their “Christian values” where they would not face discrimination as white, politically-conservative Christians. In March, they became the first family to relocate to a planned community for English speakers located about 30 miles west of Moscow. This initiative, overseen by American expat Tim Kirby, attracted the couple due to their belief that the U.S. had become overly “woke.”
Russian Government’s Invitation
The Russian government welcomed these so-called culture war refugees. In 2024, President Vladimir Putin signed an executive order offering temporary residence permits to those rejecting the “destructive neoliberal ideological attitudes” prevalent in their home countries. Approximately 1,500 of these “ideological immigrants,” including 127 Americans, have requested temporary residence in Russia.
A Shift in Perspectives
Derek Huffman praised President Putin’s leadership in a video posted on the family’s YouTube channel, asserting that the reality of life in Russia diverged significantly from media portrayals. He claimed that social media platform X was the only reliable source of information regarding American problems. After their move, the family connected with a community of Russians and Westerners online who supported them financially.
Military Engagement and Online Scrutiny
Derek’s decision to voluntarily join the Russian army in May for expedited family citizenship applications led to intense online scrutiny. Although he intended to leverage his welding skills, his wife DeAnna later revealed in a deleted video that his military experience was fraught with challenges, as he struggled with Russian-based training.
Challenges in Adjusting to New Life
Another family, the Hares, also made the move from Abilene, Texas, to Russia to distance their three sons from what they considered harmful aspects of American culture. They appreciated that public acknowledgment of LGBTQ identities is effectively banned in Russia. However, they faced numerous obstacles, including a failed apartment rental agreement that forced them to live on a farm during a harsh winter.
Family Dynamics and Future Plans
The Hares’ sons have struggled to adapt to life in Russia, expressing a desire to return to the U.S. Meanwhile, Leo and Chantelle, once business owners in the States, are now working as English tutors. They are currently homeschooling their children as they continue to navigate challenges in their new environment. Leo stated that knowing about educational restrictions would likely have changed their decision to move.
