Who knew??

Well, lots of people, apparently. It seems that the problems with LJ last spring weren't just software glitches. According to the Moscow Times, LJ is "the country's main platform for uncensored political discussion" and the April service issues were part of an organized attack on LJ by the Russian government.

Wow. And here I thought LJ was all about fan fiction, with the most subversive thing on it being H/D slash...

I'm kind of embarrassed at myself, actually. Usually I make sure I'm aware of significant political issues -- fair trade, social justice, environmental sustainability, etc. -- surrounding the products and services on which I spend my hard-earned dollars. Happily, free speech in Russia is something I'm a big fan of, so am pleased that my paid LJ subscription is supporting same :)