Madonna will introduce persecuted Russian art collective Pussy Riot when they make their first U.S. appearance at a concert in New York City on Feb. 5.
The original Material Girl will introduce Masha and Nadya (full names, Maria Alyokhina and Nadezhda Tolokonnikova), two members of Pussy Riot, at the Amnesty International Concert at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Amnesty International announced today. The women were imprisoned in Russia for outspoken protests against President Vladimir Putin.
“I am honored to introduce my fellow freedom fighters Masha and Nadya from Pussy Riot. I have admired their courage and have long supported their commitment and the sacrifices they have made in the name of freedom of expression and human rights,” Madonna said. Madonna has spoke out for Pussy Riot at several of her concerts when the women were still in prison.
Imagine Dragons, The Flaming Lips, Lauryn Hill, Tegan and Sara, The Fray, Cold War Kids, Colbie Caillat and Cake will all perform at the concert as well.
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Write to Eliana Dockterman at eliana.dockterman@time.com