Based on coverage of the Sochi Olympics, there are infinite ways in which Russia and the United States are different. A little more than two decades ago, Russia was emerging from the Communist era as our democratically-elected president commanded Soviet states to literally and figuratively “tear down their walls.”

While we no longer have missiles pointed at one another, it seems some media outlets choose to build new warheads in the form of soundbites. During a two week period supposedly dedicated to uniting the world through an appreciation of elite athleticism, reporters preached the dangers of Russia’s pseudo-dictatorship and the restrictions placed on the rights of its people, particularly homosexuals.

But look no further than Madison to see the massive similarities between these two countries. Both have established an affinity for alcohol to dull winter’s chill, both worship their respective hockey teams and both share a significant socialist tradition. This final characteristic is particularly relevant in light of the increasingly tense Ukrainian situation. The new, “westernized” Kiev government has clashed with the southern Crimea region, which has remained loyal to Russian policy and culture.

This situation is comparative to early 20th century Wisconsin, when political strife ensued between the federal government, proclaiming its intention to “make the world safe for democracy,” and the many Sconnies looking toward “eastern” socialist doctrine. This battle reached a head when socialist Victor Berger was elected to the House of Representatives from the Milwaukee district and his seat was refused to him on grounds of “criticizing the government,” namely intervention in World War I.

But the most important modern comparison between Russia and Wisconsin can be found within their respective conservative administrations. Now I’m not saying Gov. Scott Walker and President Vladimir Putin are one in the same, but both leaders have received heavy criticism on their right-wing policies, particularly those surrounding LGBTQ citizens.

With the Russian “anti-gay propaganda law” sparking protests within and outside its borders, the airwaves have condemned the nation for their bigoted policies. But if you look to the Wisconsin constitution, same-sex marriage is not only banned within Wisconsin borders, but also prohibits the recognition of same-sex marriages conducted in other states.

Although this amendment does not have the “sensationalistic nuance” supposedly worthy of daily discussion, there it stays. While many may blame the archaic context in which the amendment passed, remember that it was initially introduced in 2003 and later voted in by popular vote in 2006. This is not an ancient declaration that has been collecting dust for decades; much like the anti-gay propaganda law, it is the product of a recent legislative initiative to explicitly deny minority rights.

This is particularly alarming considering the context in which both of these country’s established these laws. One of Russia’s most famous cultural gems, who they boast as a sign of pride and accomplishment, is composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Although thinly disguised from the public during his lifetime, Tchaikovsky was gay, and many believe his sexuality heavily influenced his music. Jump across the pond and you have Wisconsin, home to U.S. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., and Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, two openly gay politicians. It is truly a fascinating paradox that Russia violently suppressed pro-LGBTQ protests while triumphantly playing Tchaikovsky masterpieces during their open ceremonies. Similarly, it seems incongruous that the state Baldwin and Pocan represent in the federal government forbids them to marry and receive other benefits, due to their sexuality.

This hypocrisy is unacceptable regardless of nation. Fortunately, an all important difference exists between the United States and Russia; as American citizens we are allowed, and in many ways encouraged, to speak and act. This is particularly true on a college campus like here in Madison, where thousands of intelligent students come together and work to improve the world around us. With an astounding rate of volunteers for programs like the Peace Corps, Teach for America and many more, this student body’s activist determination is obvious. We have never feared obstacles when faced with social injustice nor ignorance, often with powerful results.

I know this positive energy for change will be channeled later this month, when the American Civil Liberties Union testifies on behalf of a lesbian couple from Minnesota who wishes for their marriage to be recognized in the state of Wisconsin. It begins with small victories, but if we solve our own domestic problems, perhaps we can extend this knowledge to the international stage. It all begins here at home.

Audrey Piehl ([email protected]) is freshman majoring in history.