Pussy Riot honored with the Woody Guthrie award: Let’s celebrate social change

Pussy Riot will receive a prestigious award and perform in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Pussy Riot: a voice for the voiceless

SXSW, Pussy Riot, South By Southwest, Mohawk,
Photo by Andrew Calvio

On May 6, famed activist collective Pussy Riot will receive the prestigious Woody Guthrie Award in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and grace the stage at the city’s iconic Cain’s Ballroom later that evening. This esteemed award is given annually to an artist who embodies the spirit and work of Guthrie in advocating for the underprivileged through various art forms, such as music, film, literature, dance or other outlets. creative while catalyzing social change. The awards ceremony highlights the Woody Guthrie Center’s 10th anniversary celebration May 5-7.

Riot Days: a multimedia event

Collective members Masha Alyokhina and Nadya Tolokonnikova will proudly receive the Woody Guthrie Award and participate in an interview before unveiling Pussy Riot’s provocative multimedia piece, Riot Days, at its US premiere at Cain’s Ballroom.

Tolokonnikova expressed her gratitude and her thoughts in a press release:

Seems fitting to be rewarded in Woody’s mind, I think he’d like Pussy Riot’s anti-fascist message. Usually when Pussy Riot gets added to lists it’s not always a good thing, but we’re honored to be on this one. We don’t really do folk, but we don’t really do punk either, we just scream and protest just as loud

that we can, and hope that we can show others that they can do the same. As Woody said, any fool can complicate anything, our message is plain and simple. Anyone can be Pussy Riot. Riot. Riot. Resist.

Oh, and a little reminder to Vladimir Putin and all those who support his Regime Z… All of you fascists are bound to lose.

Previous Woody Guthrie Award Winners: A Legacy of Courageous Artists

Past Woody Guthrie Award winners include legendary figures such as Chuck D, Bruce Springsteen and Mavis Staples. Cady Shaw, director of the Woody Guthrie Center, praised Pussy Riot saying:

As artists who, like Woody Guthrie, have the courage of their convictions, there are no contemporary artists more deserving of this recognition than Pussy Riot. They have paid a very personal price for speaking their minds on the most serious issues of our time, but they continue to fight for justice and freedom.

Pussy Riot: fearless activists and pioneers of the musical revolution

Pussy Riot, an iconic Russian feminist protest punk rock band and art collective, has been making waves since forming in 2011. Known for their unapologetic and provocative performances, the band have garnered international attention for their powerful messages and unwavering commitment. towards social change, gender equality and political activism.

Origins: a bold start

Founded by Nadezhda “Nadya” Tolokonnikova and Maria “Masha” Alyokhina, among others, Pussy Riot burst onto the scene with a fearless attitude and a fierce determination to challenge the status quo. With their unique blend of punk rock, electronica and performance art, the band quickly caught the attention of fans and critics alike.

Music: art as a vehicle for change

Pussy Riot’s music often addresses pressing social and political issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and government corruption. Their songs, accompanied by visually arresting and empowering performances, serve as a platform to amplify marginalized voices and promote conversations about taboo topics.

In the band’s own words, they don’t conform to any specific genre, instead focusing on creating music that allows them to express their message as loudly and passionately as possible. This unique approach has resonated with fans around the world, making them a powerful force within the music industry and the activist community.

The impact: Facing adversity with resilience

Pussy Riot activism often comes at a cost. In 2012, members of the group were arrested and later sentenced to two years in prison after staging a protest performance at a Moscow cathedral. Their imprisonment drew widespread condemnation from human rights groups, artists and politicians around the world, leading to increased awareness and support for their cause.

Despite challenges and adversity, Pussy Riot remain steadfast in their mission. The band continues to create groundbreaking music and art, inspiring others to stand up for their beliefs and fight for a more just and equal society.

Legacy: A lasting impact on music and activism

As pioneers in the world of music and activism, Pussy Riot’s influence cannot be overstated. Their courage and dedication to using art to drive change has inspired countless others to follow in their footsteps. With their enduring commitment to fighting for social justice and equality, Pussy Riot has cemented their place as a symbol of resistance and a voice for the voiceless.

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