Consider This from NPR Americans are protesting the Trump administration. Do they work?
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Apr 24, 2025 
Erica Chenoweth, a civil resistance researcher at the Harvard Kennedy School, dives into the dynamics of protest movements. She discusses the historical significance of the American Civil Rights movement and its lasting impact on legislative change. Chenoweth analyzes modern protests during the Trump era, exploring their effectiveness in shaping public sentiment and policy. She highlights key factors like size and diversity that contribute to successful movements, while also reflecting on the challenges activists face in today's political landscape.
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1963 March on Washington Impact
- The 1963 March on Washington was a massive, peaceful protest that showcased diverse support across racial and social lines.
- It culminated in Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic "I have a dream" speech and led to landmark civil rights legislation.
Keys to Protest Effectiveness
- Large protests gain notice and symbolic power, especially when diverse and disciplined.
- Effective movements shift loyalties in key power structures to create change.
Protests Impact Elections
- Protests from both political left and right affect electoral outcomes though often modestly.
- The 2020 Black Lives Matter protests influenced vote share in the presidential election.