The Cable recently had the unique opportunity to interview two members of the famous Russian dissident punk band, Pussy Riot. Olga and Maria, also known as Olya and Masha, have been vocal critics of Vladimir Putin’s regime in Russia.
Pussy Riot gained international attention in 2012 when they stormed a Moscow Cathedral to perform their song ‘Punk Prayer’. This bold move led to their arrest and shed light on the human rights abuses in Russia. Masha was sentenced to two years in prison for her involvement in the protest.
During our interview, Olya and Masha shared insights into their time in prison and their continued fight for freedom and democracy. Masha recounted her experiences in a penal colony in the Urals, where she worked long hours for minimal pay in harsh conditions. Despite the challenges, Masha remained defiant and protested against the inhumane treatment.
Pussy Riot may no longer exist as a defined group, but its members are actively involved in various actions to raise awareness and support for causes, such as the people of Ukraine following the Russian invasion in 2022. According to Masha, the fight for democracy is ongoing and requires continuous effort to prevent its collapse.
The pair also discussed their recent visit to Bristol, where they spoke at an event about democracy in crisis in the age of Putin and Trump. While they didn’t have much time to explore the city, they did find a great vape shop that allowed them to enjoy a subversive moment in the spirit of Bristol.
Their visit to Bristol highlighted their commitment to speaking out against injustices and pushing boundaries to challenge oppressive regimes. Despite the obstacles they have faced, Pussy Riot remains a symbol of resistance and a voice for those fighting for freedom around the world.