Free Pussy Riot

The War on Humanism

Part Two: Free Pussy Riot

 

Women of the world have always been considered sub-human throughout history. There is still a surprising amount of countries who still see us as weak, helpless creatures, here to get married, pop out tiny humans and otherwise be seen and not heard.

Being lucky enough to live in a so called free country where I can be a loudmouthed female is a blessing and a curse. While I can use my voice for the voiceless, it seems like it is not enough, it is never enough. I look at the world through unique eyes, I try to live in love and be brave in the face of people who will never understand.

A few weeks ago, HBO aired a documentary called Pussy Riot: A Punk Prayer. This documentary won the Special Jury Prize at the 2013 Sundance film festival. Everyone has heard about this in some small way at some point but maybe like me, did not know much about the situation. I learned from the mouths of the members of Pussy Riot and through the eyes of these filmmakers.

Music has always effected the world for better and for worse. Art can save the soul and destroy entire nations at the same time. While Pussy Riot only did a handful of performances before they were unjustly imprisoned, they have caused a worldwide movement and awareness of how much Russia uses tyranny and an authoritative government to oppress its people. No one is allowed to speak out against the church or the state and these girls did both in a very flashy, over the top way. For this, they are still paying the price.

Artists and humanists, people of all ages rose up in support. To hear the girl’s parents speak of their daughters, they seem proud. These girls are all around the same age I am and it is scary to know this could happen to any of us who speak up about injustice in the world.

Here in the West, we live a comfortable life and most people have a hard time understanding the worlds that still exist in many countries. We have a hard time imagining our daughters being jailed for speaking their minds, being creative and trying to make a difference in the world. Many things run true as human nature though. These girls are considered demons because they have no interest in getting married and having children. This is not what is shocking, I have had the same issues for having the same views my whole life. “Deranged vaginas” was thrown around the courtroom during the trial. Instead of being offended, they laughed, I laughed and have decided to own it proudly in solidarity.

 

I have always felt that if you are not angry, you are not paying attention. I urge you to find out more about how to get involved. It could be me, you, your sister, your mother or your best friend. Look through this site and educate yourself further, no one deserves to be treated like this, anywhere, ever.