2/23/2024

Feb 23, 2024

My Dear Friend & POTUS, JRB,

            Thanks for taking the time to speak with Alexei Navalny’s wife, Yulia, & his daughter, Dasha at the Fairmount yesterday & letting them know that you share their grief & that you will hold VVP accountable. It’s unfortunate that VVP is so paranoid about an uprising at AN’s funeral that he is holding the body hostage until AN’s mom agrees to a private ceremony.

            I hope VVP is persuaded by the petition initiated by a group of Russian Orthodox priests, saying AN’s family has the right to say farewell & give him a Christian burial. It also says, "do not overshadow the tragedy of his death by refusing such a simple and humane request. Remember that everyone is equal before God."

            When this kind of thing happens, I am reminded of the line from Jesus Christ Super Star, “If every tongue were still, the noise would still continue, the rocks & stones themselves would start to sing.” People who want their freedom won’t be suppressed. Our divine sparks lead us to yearn for a better world where peace prevails. No matter what our oppressors do, our hearts will remain open & we will find a way to resist.

            That’s true in Russia, in Burma & in Gaza. It’s true here, too.

            BYBS,