"We are freer than those who are prosecuting us. We can say everything we want, and they have their mouths shut, and are puppets." ~ Pussy Riot closing statements
If you haven't heard, Pussy Riot is a feminist punk band from Russia currently on trial for "hooliganism motivated by religious hatred" after a guerilla performance at the altar of Moscow's Christ the Savior Cathedral. The performance? A "punk prayer" called "Our Lady, chase Putin out." Two weeks after the performance, three women in Pussy Riot were arrested, and they've been sitting in jail since then, denied bail and access to their children.
Pussy Riot "realized that this country needs a militant, punk-feminist, street band that will rip through Moscow's streets and squares, mobilize public energy against the evil crooks of the Putinist junta and enrich the Russian cultural and political opposition," and for that they are being punished.
This comes at a time when we see a global crackdown on activists who challenge authoritarian structures and seek to equitably transform our societies. In fact, the name of our event, C.U.N.T. for a Cause, follows in the tradition of Northern California-based C.U.N.T., or Creating Unity through Nonviolent Transformation. This group seeks to inspire new ideas, expression and action in regards to how we as individuals and communities respond to violence by creating community while disrupting the capitalist relations that divide us.
On Saturday August 25th, we will host a solidarity concert for Pussy Riot! The show will include background on Pussy Riot and Putin opposition in Russia, balaclava making, local music, from single musicians to punk bands, and more!
Interested in performing? Have ideas? E-mail holly@canvassforacause.org
SCHEDULE TBA
See you there, and don't forget to bring your very own balaclava!
https://www.facebook.com/events/373288079410222/
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