EP 944 America was Born in Protest and Makes Progress in Dissent

In 2025, more Americans have taken to the streets to protest various issues that concern them about our nation’s politics than in the recent past.  As a country that came about from rebellion against tyranny, it is an American birthright.  Various forms of protest have given energy to civil rights, improved labor conditions, a cleaner environment and the ending of wars, like Vietnam. However, there are many who are not moved to participate in this great American tradition or may not think they are.  Writing to a government official, signing a petition or not shopping at a particular business, as well as more demonstrative acts of holding a sign in public, constitute a form of protest.  We learn a great deal about the various manifestations it takes in Gloria J. Browne-Marshall’s new book, “A Protest History of the United States.”  She gives us eye-opening account of its centrality to the American experience then and now.  Regular people using resistance, rebellion and activism represent the most effective way to change our world.

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