Throughout history, protests have proved to be a powerful tactic for citizens to speak their truth and show the strength of their causes. Protestors derive strength from standing with others who care enough to create a public demonstration of their commitment. A 30-year study published by the Stanford Graduate School of Business and the University of Pennsylvania found that increases in protests – whether liberal or conservative – can  increase or decrease a candidate’s vote by enough to change the final outcome of an election. 

The Brookings Institute, a think tank that conducts in-depth, nonpartisan research, states that “To succeed in the long term, protest activities must have clear strategic objectives, broaden their coalitions, and develop concrete electoral and political mobilization efforts.