For two years Putin has imprisoned thousands of people in Russia who are protesting against the war in Ukraine. World Without Genocide, Russians Against War – Minnesota (RAW-MN), The Museum of Russian Art, and the Germanic-American Institute invite you join us to write letters to these prisoners who are standing up against injustice.

This letter-writing initiative is being conducted in locations all over the world. Since our first event in May 2023, Minnesotans have written hundreds of letters and many have received responses.

How does it work?   Join us at the Germanic-American Institute. on Thursday, March 14, 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Letter-writing materials and profiles on current Russian detainees are provided. You may write as many letters as you like. Letters are then translated into Russian and sent electronically through a secure portal in Russia, and prisoners are able to write back. Reply letters are translated and returned to the original writers electronically.

What should I write about?
Write about your life:
What you did today.
Describe your family.
Write about your hobbies.
Describe the town where you live.
Write about the weather, or outdoor activities you enjoy.
If you have questions throughout the event, we are happy to help.

How will this help the war effort?
The letters provide emotional support to the prisoners and promote democracy.
The letters keep connections strong to fellow Russians across thousands of miles.
Maintaining contact with prisoners strengthens democratic ideals.
The letters give prisoners hope.
Prisoners who receive letters are treated better. Guards know that the prisoners aren’t alone.

All are welcome. Registration is not required.

Germanic-American Institute
301 Summit Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55102
651-222-7027

Diversity credits are available for Mitchell Hamline students.

Contact [email protected] for more information.