Political Prisoners Letter Writing Campaign

On October 30th a group of Dartmouth students gathered in Reed Hall to write letters to political prisoners in Russia supported by faculty of East European, Eurasian, and Russian Studies. They were inspired by Pulitzer Prize winner Vladimir Kara-Murza, recently released, who recommended letter writing as a means to bolster the spirits of those incarcerated for their political beliefs. Artwork for the event poster courtesy of Sasha Skochilenko who was also released from a Russian prison on August 1st of this year. 

The Following are excerpts from some of the letters written that will be sent. Letters were written in both English and Russian. Translations offered here of letters written in Russian were done using Google translate.

Coming from the United States, it is often difficult to imagine the courage you must have to stand up for what you believe in. Every day I think about people like yourself, and it warms my heart to know that there are those like you who tirelessly devote themselves to the protection of their community and the rights of those within it.

To Alexei Solokov – from Carter

I recently went to a museum and saw a painting of a girl…The artist captured the spark of intelligence and soul that hides behind human eyes – a thing I haven't been able to see many artists do. The videos I've seen of you have always drawn me to your eyes as well. I can see your passion, kindness, and belief for justice.

To Dmitry Skurikhin -  from Alison

I read that you are also a ballet dancer. That is so wonderful! I was a ballerina when I was younger…  Your photos from dance are so beautiful and impressive.

To Ksenia Karelina – from Uma

Although my Russian lesson has not started yet, I have many Russian-speaking friends… I also have several friends who were arrested at demonstrations here in the USA. I learned about your life in the news and hope that you will be free soon.

Хотя мой урок русского ещё не начался, у меня много русскоязычных друзей. Мне нравится бегать и играть на саксофоне. У меня тоже есть несколько друзей, которые были арестованы на демонстрациях здесь, в США. Я узнал о вашей жизни в новостях и надеюсь, что вы скоро будете свободным.

To Sergei Udaltsov – from a student (anon)

Sometimes the hardest thing is to speak up in times of great difficulty. I hope your children can grow up in a better Russia, a country where people like you will govern democratically and fairly.

Иногда самое сложное — это не молчать во времена огромных трудностей. Я надеюсь, что ваши дети смогут расти в лучшей России, в стране, где такие люди, как вы, будут управлять демократично и справедливо.

To Dmitry Skurikhin -from Sasha

I hope that in the future there will be peace and that we can come to Russia. Until then, I will tell others about your example.

Я надеюсь, что в будущем будет мир и что мы сможем приехать в Россию.

To Ramila Galim – from Nadya