a hand holding a sticker sheet that says

A Long Tradition of Protest Art and Why it Matters NOW

Written by: Hannah Pearlman

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Published on

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Time to read 1 min

The World is On Fire

I've really been struggling lately with feeling like I inhabit two distinct universes: the universe where I work and promote my business and live my life, and the universe where I see ICE kidnapping and murdering people. And it feels so easy to despair and fall into nihilism -- the system is so utterly broken and I am but one person, how could I possibly effect change of any sort?


And yet -


We know injustice will always exist, but it’s our duty to tackle it as best we can. We can all help bring the world a little closer to the way it should be. Art is how we make sense and meaning of it all and how we inspire connection and even action.

A Tradition of Protest Art

There's a long, long tradition of protest art. In fact, you can pretty much count on people making art to express their outrage, galvanize support, and spark action. The invention of the printing press made it easier to distribute prints, and there are political illustrations from many major historical events. Even in the darkest times, people have made art (perhaps not always overt protest art, but art nonetheless).


And that is part of the reason that I create -- to relate to others and help them feel connected, to use my voice to say something that matters, and to contribute materially.

an illustration of cacti in front of a colorful landscape with lettering that reads "no human is illegal"

Abolish ICE Sticker Sheet: Proceeds Benefitting The Immigrant Defense Network

I started creating activist stickers to share protest art in an accessible and inexpensive way. And more than that, I want to use my voice to make protest art that can actually help.


I created a sticker sheet that does both. It's a way to signal to others what you stand for and expresses some of what you might be feeling. All profits from the sale of this sticker sheet will benefit The Immigrant Defense Network, an alliance of 100+ immigrant, labor, legal, faith, and community organizations across Minnesota.

I hope you'll join me in making protest art, to bring light into dark moments, connect with community, and galvanize action. If you purchase a sticker sheet, you get some protest art and make a donation that matters. 


And please, no matter what your skill, pick up a pencil and make your own protest art. The world needs your voice now!

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