Protests have been a powerful tool for social change throughout history, and with each movement comes a unique set of language and terms. Curious about the slang used in protests? Look no further! We’ve gathered a list of the most impactful and commonly used phrases to help you navigate the world of activism. Stay informed and empowered with our guide to the top slang for protest.
Click above to generate some slangs
1. Rally
A rally is a public gathering or event where people come together to express their opinions or support a cause. It is often characterized by speeches, chants, and signs.
- For example, “Thousands of people attended the rally to protest against climate change.”
- A participant might say, “I’m going to the rally to show my support for equal rights.”
- A news headline might read, “Protesters hold massive rally demanding justice.”
2. March
A march is a form of protest where people walk together in a coordinated and organized manner to express their views or demand change. It is often accompanied by chants, signs, and sometimes, music.
- For instance, “The march for women’s rights attracted thousands of participants.”
- A participant might say, “I’m joining the march to stand up against racial injustice.”
- A news report might state, “Protesters peacefully marched through the city streets, calling for police reform.”
3. Demonstration
A demonstration is a public display or action to express a particular viewpoint or demand change. It can take various forms, such as marches, rallies, sit-ins, or pickets.
- For example, “The demonstration against police brutality drew attention from local and national media.”
- A participant might say, “I’m participating in the demonstration to demand affordable housing for all.”
- A news article might report, “Activists staged a demonstration outside the government building, calling for climate action.”
4. Sit-in
A sit-in is a form of protest where individuals occupy a particular space, such as a government building or public area, to make a statement or demand change. Participants typically refuse to leave until their demands are met.
- For instance, “Students staged a sit-in at the university president’s office to protest tuition hikes.”
- A participant might say, “We’re organizing a sit-in to raise awareness about the need for gun control.”
- A news report might state, “Protesters conducted a peaceful sit-in, blocking access to the corporate headquarters.”
5. Strike
A strike is a collective action where workers refuse to work as a form of protest or to demand better working conditions, higher wages, or other benefits. It often involves picketing and can disrupt normal operations.
- For example, “The teachers went on strike to advocate for fair pay and smaller class sizes.”
- A worker might say, “We’re considering a strike if our safety concerns are not addressed.”
- A news headline might read, “Thousands of factory workers stage strike, demanding improved labor rights.”
6. Protest
This refers to a public display of objection or disapproval towards a specific cause or issue. Protests can take various forms, including marches, rallies, sit-ins, and picket lines.
- For example, “Thousands of people gathered in the city center to protest against police brutality.”
- A news headline might read, “Students organized a protest to demand action on climate change.”
- During a protest, participants might chant slogans like, “No justice, no peace!” or “What do we want? Change! When do we want it? Now!”
7. Walkout
A walkout is a form of protest where participants leave their place of work, school, or other organized setting as a means of expressing their dissatisfaction or demanding change. Walkouts are often used by employees or students to draw attention to specific issues.
- For instance, “Teachers staged a walkout to demand higher pay and better working conditions.”
- During a walkout, participants might carry signs with messages like, “Stand up, walk out, make a difference!”
- A news article might report, “Students across the country are planning a walkout to protest gun violence.”
8. Boycott
A boycott is a form of protest where individuals or groups choose to abstain from using, buying, or supporting a particular product, service, company, or event in order to express their opposition or disagreement with certain practices or policies.
- For example, “Activists called for a boycott of the company due to its unethical business practices.”
- A consumer might say, “I’m boycotting that brand because they don’t align with my values.”
- A news headline might read, “Protesters boycott local businesses in support of workers’ rights.”
9. Civil disobedience
Civil disobedience refers to the intentional violation of certain laws, regulations, or orders as a way to challenge unjust or unfair policies or systems. It is a form of protest that emphasizes nonviolent resistance and aims to bring attention to social or political issues.
- For instance, “Civil rights activists practiced civil disobedience by refusing to give up their seats on segregated buses.”
- A protest organizer might say, “We believe in the power of civil disobedience to effect meaningful change.”
- A news article might report, “Protesters engaged in acts of civil disobedience to oppose the construction of an oil pipeline.”
10. Resistance
Resistance refers to the act of opposing or standing against something, often in the context of social or political movements. It encompasses various forms of protest, including demonstrations, acts of civil disobedience, and grassroots organizing.
- For example, “The resistance movement fought against the oppressive regime.”
- A protester might say, “We must unite in resistance against injustice.”
- A news headline might read, “Resistance grows as citizens voice their discontent with government policies.”
11. Outcry
Outcry refers to a public expression of strong emotion or protest, often in response to an injustice or controversial event.
- For example, “There was a loud outcry from the community after the decision was announced.”
- During a protest, a participant might shout, “We demand justice!” as part of the outcry.
- A news headline might read, “Outcry over police brutality sparks nationwide demonstrations.”
12. Outrage
Outrage is a strong feeling of anger or indignation, often in response to a perceived injustice or offensive action.
- For instance, “The video of police brutality caused outrage across the country.”
- During a protest, people might chant, “No justice, no peace!” to express their outrage.
- A protester might hold a sign that says, “Stop the outrage, end the violence.”
13. Dissidence
Dissidence refers to the act of opposing or disagreeing with authority, often in the context of political or social protest.
- For example, “The dissidence against the government’s policies led to widespread protests.”
- A dissident might organize a peaceful march to express their opposition.
- A news article might describe a group as “a collective of dissident artists advocating for social change.”
14. Mutiny
Mutiny is a term that denotes a rebellion or revolt against authority, often within a military or hierarchical context.
- For instance, “The soldiers staged a mutiny against their commanding officer.”
- During a protest, a participant might say, “This is our mutiny against the oppressive system.”
- A news headline might read, “Workers initiate mutiny against unfair labor practices.”
15. Uproar
Uproar refers to a state of loud and chaotic noise or commotion, often associated with protests or demonstrations.
- For example, “The announcement of the controversial decision caused an uproar in the crowd.”
- During a protest, the sound of chanting and drumming can create an uproar.
- A news report might describe a scene as “an uproar of voices demanding change.”