Displays of Flags and Symbols
This technique showcases the flag or colors of a national, religious, social or political group, in a form of nonviolent protest that draws on the existence of deep emotions or from the intention to stir them.
In 2005, Israel began construction of the wall along the West Bank, ostensibly to keep out suicide bombers. However, in some towns, such as Bil’in, the wall also prevented Palestinians from accessing the majority of their farmland. Residents began to gather at the wall every week to protest, waving Palestinian flags.
(You can read more about the different methods of nonviolent protest in Gene Sharp’s book The Politics of Nonviolent Action. Access CSA’s catalogue of Sharp’s methods here, or download the full list of 198 methods here.)
