As of today, Russia has added Nadya Tolokonnikova, a prominent member of the protest punk group Pussy Riot, to its terrorist list, sparking widespread concern and criticism. This move is seen as an alarming development, considering Tolokonnikova’s history of advocating for political and social change through activism and art. Pussy Riot gained international attention for their fearless performances challenging the Russian government, and Tolokonnikova’s inclusion in the terrorist list raises questions about the state’s approach to dissenting voices. Human rights advocates and supporters of free expression should be continuing to emphasizing the importance of protecting individuals’ rights to peaceful protest and artistic expression, and the decision to label Tolokonnikova as a terrorist reflects a broader trend of tightening restrictions on activism and dissent in Russia, and must be seen from the international community – especially those in music – as nothing less than censorship and dangerous actions from the Russian government.
Tolokonnikova has released this statement: I’ve been vocal about sending aid, humanitarian and military, to Ukraine since day 1, I stand by this today. A year ago, I announced a gallery show called “Putin’s Ashes” and I was added to the wanted list. Last week, I announced a Hollywood production of my story and they escalated their review of me – a terrorist.
Yesterday Biden said “If you’re being celebrated by Russian propagandists, it might be time to rethink what you are doing.”
So in that same way, if Russia calls me a terrorist, I must be doing something right.
I’m happy to show republican congress members what it means to have a spine, and to stand up for freedom, and for Ukraine.
Putin’s Russia is a terrorist state, there’s no reasoning or negotiations with them. My friend and comrade Alexey Navalny, who was poisoned by a nerve agent in 2019, has recently gone missing in Russian jail where he serves his 19 year prison sentence – we don’t know where he is for 7 days. It’s a military dictatorship, as real as it gets.
