On Friday August 16 three members of Pussy Riot were sentenced to two years in a work camp for "hooliganism motivated by religious hatred" for playing a protest song in a church, becoming overnight media sensations all over the world.
Also on Friday Pussy Riot released a new song calling for revolution:
This weekend social networking sites are full of people talking about Pussy Riot.
Why is this such a huge news story right now?
What does it mean that this case has momentum behind it while others don't?
Why this particular struggle and not another at this historical moment in time?
What is the geopolitical meaning of Pussy Riot advocacy?
Some legitimate critiques & points are being made. Others seem to miss the mark.
Asking questions and engaging in critical dialogue is crucial but let us not forget the point:
Pussy Riot is extremely radical.
The fact that they are experiencing their 15 minutes of fame does not change that.
Advocacy from celebrities & western governments/organizations/feminists with their own agenda does not change that.
Let's be humble for a minute and listen to how Pussy Riot & Putin's opposition define issues in order to figure out how we can support their struggle.
Lastly, oppression is not a competition. We all come from different places of privilege and oppression but that doesn't mean we can't work together.
The local and the global are connected.
Feminist solidarity across borders!
Social Justice not retributive justice!
Free Pussy Riot and all political prisoners!
DEATH TO PRISON, FREEDOM TO PROTEST!
1 comment:
What you said.
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