Summary points:
- There are many examples of successful non-violent protest movements.
- A relatively small percentage of a population can cause change.
- Protests can increase awareness and empower people.
A few of the protest movements that have succeeded include:
- Maidan Revolution (or Revolution of Dignity) in Ukraine, 2014.
- Civil Rights Movement in US, 1950s-1960s.
- Suffragette Movement in US and UK, late 18th-early 20th
- Anti-apartheid South Africa, 1950-1990s.
- Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia, 1989
- Indian Independence Movement in India, 1915-1947
Did any of the above accomplish 100% of its goals? Of course not. 100% is not in the nature of human endeavors.
What percentage of a population protesting creates the critical mass needed for change? If about 3.5% of a population is actively engaged in a sustained manner, the protests are likely to succeed through:
- Gaining media attention.
- Paralyzing infrastructure.
- Creating division among elites and security forces.
- Forcing negotiations or concessions.
The 3.5% figure comes from the work of Erica Chenoweth in studying the issue across nations and cultures. BBC published an article on “The ‘3.5% rule’: How a small minority can change the world.”
Awareness: Participating in protest is empowering and creates opportunities for connection among like-minded people. We are not alone and it is not futile!
Thanks to DK and ChatGPT. Click photo for a nice big one.
Hands Off!
Hands off healthcare, Social Security, the arts, law enforcement, universities, the environment, national parks, our allies, freedom of speech, history, our future, and so much else!
