Mark Yoffe
Mark Yoffe is a prominent scholar and librarian specializing in Slavic studies, with a particular focus on Russian rock music and counterculture. As the curator of the International Counterculture Archive at George Washington University, he has established one of the largest collections of Soviet and Russian rock zines in the US. Yoffe was an active supporter of Pussy Riot during their trial, advocating for free expression through public speaking engagements and media appearances.
His work extends globally, with field research in numerous countries including Latvia, Estonia, Poland, and Argentina, highlighting countercultural movements beyond Russia. He has authored several books and essays on topics such as rock music's role in nationalism and the history of Soviet rock. Yoffe teaches courses on counterculture, folklore, and cinema at various universities, sharing his expertise with a broad audience.
In addition to academic contributions, he frequently appears on media platforms like Voice of America, discussing his research and advocacy. Personally, he is married to Lissa Rosenthal-Yoffe and has a son, Bruno, residing in Pittsburgh. Yoffe's dedication to preserving and promoting countercultural history underscores his significant impact in academia and activism.