On Thursday, Sept. 26 REES students went to Swarthmore to hear a talk and performance by Nadia Tolokonnikova of Pussy Riot. Her visit was sponsored by the Cooper Series under the heading of “Activism Under Totalitarianism: A Lecture and Performance Series.” Nadia addressed her prison advocacy and activist values during the talk, fielding questions from students in the audience about what keeps her going and how she handles media coverage. Her performance featured old classics – such as the historic Punk Prayer – as well as newer songs written in both Russian and English.

The event series at Swarthmore continues with a presentation and Q & A with Masha Gessen on October 23, 2019. For more info, see the events’ page.