Let the Russians Smell the Air of Freedom

“If liberty means anything at all, it means the right to tell people what they do not want to hear.”

― George Orwell

The Orwellian Tiger of submission and autocracy has met his predator equal. The Kremlin, housing that leader, that politician, that czar, possesses the air of fear because of rising opposition amongst the people.

President Putin, last July, has been approved by his government through constitutional amendment to lengthen his time in power until 2036. He has been unchallenged by opposition leaders for that seat for power for many decades. It is said that a popular vote on the amendment, of which 78 percent of voters voted in favor of it, was initiated only after the Russian legislature officially approved it. This is mere theatrics used only to cover up the giant metal box of tyranny with a small rag of counterfeit democracy. In order to persuade the public into voting for this amendment, the Russian government made it a deceiving deal that forced the Russian public to vote on a law that seemed to honor Soviet veterans, but was a law to destroy the principle of a free and democratic change in leadership.

Mr. Navalny, the major political critic of the Kremlin, has denounced this amendment, as well as many other actions perpetuated by the Russian government. Navalny has uncovered the corruption and filth that inhabits the walls of the Kremlin, only to be painfully scrutinized and ultimately arrested.

Mr. Navalny's release should be supported, for he was arrested under unjust pretenses; however, if he ever wishes to become Russia's next leader, the Russian people must be weary. In the past, though liberal principles made up a massive part of his political façade, he believed in a nationalistic approach to immigration of a people called the Chechens, an Islamic people, or in his own terms, "cockroaches". That claim is terribly unforgivable, but in this moment in time, our forefront cause is to ensure that democracy prevails in Russia. Until this mission ends, the Russians need to choose a new leader.

The Russian nation has too long been subjected to the ideals of tyranny which has taken many forms - imperialism, Communism, and now Putinism. Supporters of Navalny, who have suffered because of poor living standards, repression, and thieving, have risen from silence to protest the responsible Russian government. Though the right of assembly is viewed as an American principle, it is a human principle - an ideal that is practiced in the free world and should be practiced across the globe - for all mankind should possess the vocal chords necessary to enact positive change that ensures a freer society.

The brutality of the Russian police should not discourage the fight for freedom. After all, every movement that puts liberty in the center has succeeded despite doubts, harassment, and constant trials. Pushing forward with mental endurance and the upmost zeal will ensure victory. When victory comes, Russia will be among the ranks of the free.