A quick word on Pussy Riot.
Those of us who live in what is commonly known as "the West" -i.e. this nebulous, comparatively rich and reasonably democratic select entity that mainly includes the EU, the US of A, Australia and Japan- are always in danger of forgetting what a privileged position we find ourselves in, through hardly any effort of our own.
Not everyone is born that lucky.
As a matter of fact, the huge majority of States in this world have still not recognised the notions of human and civil rights, with religion being the major poison hindering the evolution of humanity. Religion -admirable as it can undoubtedly be for good souls in search of validation in a brutal, dog-eat-dog world- always provides the perfect excuse for all sorts of authoritarian regimes the world over.
This time, it's Russia who resorts to that cop-out.
Yes, Russia.
Hardly more than twenty years ago, the country was officially godless and "Scientific Atheism" (I am not making this up) was taught at University. Fast forward back to the present and Russia, under KGB apparatchik Putin, is now trying agit-prop artists for "religious hatred". Nobody is fooled except, arguably, a few old and distressed babushkas. "Authoritarian" (admire the euphemism) Putin does not suffer critics gladly. A handful of young women in cheap nylon was never going to stand much chance against him -They have been duly convicted.
Putin was always rightfully despised all around the world by every right-thinking person (need I remind anyone of his support for Assad, to name but one current example?), so his latest action is of no surprise whatsoever.
What he's also done though...
he has managed to turn into universal martyrs three girls who were largely unknown until 6 months ago -Now that's one mighty shot in the foot, Vladso!
Pussy Riot, we salute you and wish you "good luck".
In a way (see right above), you've already won the battle.
...When you have the likes of Sir Paul MacCartney, Uma o'Gil, Alicia Silverstone, Madonna, Amnesty International, Katie Nash and Peaches on your side, you know you must be doing something right! ;-)
Quick PS to John Lydon: now that is what "punk" is about -not selling butter and begging advertisers to hire you.
