The Psychology of Protest...Symbolism of the Mask

The Psychology of Protest...Symbolism of the Mask

Every rights group has it's wearable symbol. The American Indian Movement has the red beret and field jacket, the Black Panthers have the black beret and leather jacket, we have the Guy Fawkes mask. Like it or not, these symbols are intimidating to the average person. We need to use that fact to our advantage whenever possible. As Anons, we find the mask appealing, even sexy. Others have very different reactions.

Although most of my experience comes from wearing another group's symbols, the idea is the same and the lessons cross over intact.

The Steubenville rallies, for example, regardless of the number of participants, would not have been nearly as effective in the beginning without the symbol of our idea on prominent display. The mask shows the World who and what we are. In some it instills fear, in others awe. To some it is terrifying and they don't dare look away, to others it is a magnet which draws them to us. In either case, once we have them listening, we can begin to work our magic and to explain our true nature. In order for this to work, the intimidation factor is key. Without that we are just people in costume, with it we are World renowned guardians of Justice.

For this reason the mask must be respected. One photo or video on local media of a masked anon doing something improper or comical could damage an entire op by causing the public to lose respect for us or to see us as less intimidating. Never be seen doing anything disrespectful in your mask. I'll leave the definition of disrespectful to you as it will differ for each of us. Some examples might be littering, arguing with other anons, being drunk in a public place, etc. There are many possibilities. While wearing the mask, please act with the dignity that it deserves.

As with all of my writings, this is my opinion and nothing more. It is not intended to be viewed as any sort of official communication or policy statement. Questions or concerns should be directed to @anon_wv on Twitter.