Demonstrators In Chicago Show Solidarity For Pussy Riot
By aaroncynic in News on Aug 18, 2012 8:00PM
About 50 people gathered yesterday in front of City Hall to demonstrate as part of a day of international solidarity with the jailed Russian band Pussy Riot. The trio of women were found guilty by a Russian court for “hooliganism” after performing a “punk prayer” criticizing Vladimir Putin and sentenced to two years in prison.
Supporters crowded in front of city hall, many wearing balaclavas, chanting “women's rights are human rights, free Pussy Riot” and chalked messages about the Russian women, Vladimir Putin, and women's rights. Some read excerpts from messages written by the band, others passed out fliers and information about their case.
Over a bullhorn, one masked protester said:
“What we're doing out here today is absolutely essential. It's not some liberal yuppie cause, it's about defending free speech, defending art, and defending these women's rights. They're speaking out against an oppressive regime and we should stand in solidarity with our sisters in Russia and our sisters everywhere.”