Masha Gessen is a Russian-American journalist, author, and activist known for their work on LGBTQ+ rights and political issues in Russia. Born in 1967 in Moscow, Gessen moved to the United States in the early 1990s. They have written extensively about Vladimir Putin and the political climate in Russia, often highlighting the challenges faced by dissidents and marginalized communities. Gessen is the author of several acclaimed books, including "The Future Is History" and "The Man Without a Face." They have received numerous awards for their journalism, including the National Book Award. Gessen is also a prominent voice in discussions about democracy, authoritarianism, and the importance of free speech.