Amnesty International has organized more than 100 top musicians to call for the release of the two jailed members of Russian feminist punk group Pussy Riot ahead of their parole appeal hearing this week. One of the signatories to an open letter, Yoko Ono, says: "I thank Pussy Riot for standing firmly in their belief for Freedom of Expression, and making all women of the world proud to be women."

FULL TEXT OF THE LETTER:



AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL OPEN LETTER



Dear Masha and Nadia,





As the one-year anniversary of your trial approaches, we are writing to assure you that,

around the world, people are both still thinking of you and working for your release.

Although you were the most visible of the protesters, we know that there were many other

young people who have suffered in the protests, about whom we are also very concerned.

But, in many ways, through your imprisonment, you have come to represent them.





Many artists voiced their concern when these charges were first brought against you, we

had every hope that the authorities, in dealing with you, would show some understanding,

a sense of proportion, even some of the wonderful Russian sense of humour, but none of

the above were forthcoming.





The impact of your shockingly unjust trial and imprisonment has spread far and wide.

Especially among your fellow artists, musicians and citizens around the world, including

the many parents who feel your anguish at being separated from your children. While

understanding the sensitivities of protesting in a place of worship, we ask that the Russian

authorities review these harsh sentences, so that you may return to your children, your

families and your lives.





The right to freedom of expression and dissent is a legitimate one and essential in any

kind of democracy. You have been accused of what could be described as ‘a victimless’

crime, but in our opinion, in a just society, there can be no crime where there is no

identifiable ‘victim’.





Your strength, bravery and fearlessness are an inspiration to us all.





Yours in solidarity,



