Paul McCartney Implores Russia to Free ‘Pussy Riot’

People all over the world have been captivated by the public trials and subsequent prison sentencing of Nadezhda Tolokonnikova and Maria Alekhina. Tolokonnikova and Alekhina are band mates—members of the Russian punk rock group, Pussy Riot. It’s been over a year since their infamous guerrilla-style performance on the steps of a Russian Orthodox Church in Moscow, but their sentencing of two years of imprisonment continues to gain attention on a global scale as an issue that violates the women’s human rights.

The band, which has had a changeable membership of as many as eleven women since its formation in 2011, is made up of musicians who are equally passionate about activism. The content of their music is controversial; it often makes commentary on feminism, LGBT rights, politics, and social justice issues, as well as their opposition to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Since their initial arrests in March 2012, there have been thousands of people and organizations that have protested the treatment of Tolokonnikova and Alekhina; since their sentencing, the amount of people invested in achieving justice for the women has grown immensely. Other musicians such as Sting, Patti Smith, and Madonna have made public statements in defense of the artist-activists, and the newest celebrity joining the cause is none other than Sir Paul McCartney of the Beatles.

Following the hospitalization of Alekhina, who was being treated as a result of her hunger strike, McCartney reportedly wrote multiple letters to Russian Authorities regarding the women and their incarceration. McCartney wrote, "My personal belief is that further incarceration for Maria will be harmful for her and the situation as a whole, which, of course, is being watched by people all over the world...”

McCartney’s polite reminder that the global scrutiny surrounding Russian policy and politics is immense, suggesting that it would be in the country’s best interest to reevaluate the sentencing of Pussy Riot band members. Indeed, justice for these women is a common goal that people all over the world are fighting for. With more endorsement from influential people like McCartney, the band might expect to reclaim their freedom soon.

For more information on Pussy Riot’s sentencing and how it impacts a greater fight for human rights, check out Amnesty International's efforts.