Cover of the book 'PROTEST: Respect It, Defend It, Use It' featuring a collage of protest scenes

Our right to protest is under attack and our democracy is at stake.

Nonviolent protest is one of the most powerful tools ordinary people have ever wielded. It has advanced human rights, environmental protection, and justice around the world. And because it works, it is under attack.

We need it now more than ever.

Protest: Respect It, Defend It, Use It is a call to action to preserve, expand and exercise our freedoms. Published by Patagonia Books, it is available for preorder now.

“Democracy maintenance is important. If you don’t exercise your rights, they atrophy.”— Rebecca Solnit (Page 58)

With Contributions From

Nnimmo BasseyIeshia EvansShepard FaireyJane FondaIsra HirsiDolores HuertaMaurice MitchellNemonte NenquimoJustin J. PearsonRobert ReichFavianna RodriguezRebecca SolnitPeter StaleySandra SteingraberRev Lennox Yearwood Jr

Authors

Portrait of author Annie Leonard
Annie Leonard

Annie Leonard is the Executive Director of Greenpeace US. She began her career at Greenpeace in 1988 and has spent over two decades investigating and explaining the environmental and social impacts of our stuff. She is the author of The Story of Stuff and founder of The Story of Stuff Project.

Portrait of author André Carothers
André Carothers

André Carothers spent thirteen years with Greenpeace US, including four years on the Board of Directors. He co-founded and led the Rockwood Leadership Institute for twelve years, and has served as a board member of several groups including the Center for Investigative Reporting and Rainforest Action Network.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main message of the book Protest: Respect It, Defend It, Use It?

The book argues that protest is not chaos or spectacle, but a vital tool for democracy. It serves as a call to action to preserve and expand our freedoms by respecting the history of protest, defending the right to dissent, and using collective action to defend and advance human rights, environmental protection, and justice.

Who are the contributors to the book?

The book features contributions from renowned activists and thought leaders Nnimmo Bassey, Ieshia Evans, Shepard Fairey, Jane Fonda, Isra Hirsi, Dolores Huerta, Maurice Mitchell, Nemonte Nenquimo, Justin J. Pearson, Robert Reich, Favianna Rodriguez, Rebecca Solnit, Peter Staley, Dr. Sandra Steingraber, and Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr.

What can I do?

Linked here are resources from national groups, thought leaders, books, and videos. No need to go it alone; there are lots of people right nearby who welcome your help and will help you contribute.

Where can I buy Protest: Respect It, Defend It, Use It?

You can pre-purchase PROTEST at independent bookstores nationwide and most major online retailers. Soon you will be able to buy it at Patagonia stores nationwide, and the Patagonia website. We encourage supporting local independent bookstores whenever possible.

Do you offer bulk discounts for organizations?

Yes! Patagonia offers special pricing to non-profits, schools, and other groups or individuals. Please contact [email protected].