Speaking Out against persecution of Punk Rock Band

	Speak out against persecution of punk protestors
	Dear KDTN Radio One, On August 17 three members of Pussy Riot, a feminist punk band who wear colorful masks to protect their anonymity, were sentenced to two years in jail for performing a protest song in Moscow's main Orthodox cathedral. The sentence was a major blow to free speech activists in Russia and around the world. But the global movement to help Pussy Riot has just begun. Be a part of it. Help us send a truckload of colorful masks to President Putin in protest. The persecution of the three punk protestors is just one example of Putin’s efforts to clamp down on freedom of expression. Over the weekend, Pussy Riot reported that two other members fled Russia for protection. But the international attention generated by the Pussy Riot trial is galvanizing the free speech movement and sending Putin a clear message: The world is watching. Tell President Putin that you’re watching too. Donate $20 or more to send a mask. Our goal is to bring 1,000 of these colorful masks, called balaclavas, outside the UN General Assembly in September which high-ranking Russian officials will attend. So far, we have 600. Will you help us reach our goal? Amnesty International is working with partners including seminal punk rock club CBGB, musicians like Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters and others to demand the release of Pussy Riot. We can win this fight. Please help us send a strong message to President Putin – we will not let Pussy Riot be silenced! In Solidarity, Michelle Ringuette Chief of Campaigns & Programs Amnesty International USA