In recent months, the signature skull and crossbones with a straw hat has transformed into a potent political symbol. This imagery, drawing from the world famous Japanese manga and anime series “One Piece,” has become a regular sight on protests mainly organized by Generation Z. Youth activists in the Philippines, Madagascar, Indonesia, and Nepal have been making striking imagery a central part of their protests. They are angrily shouting out their disgust and anger at the rampant corruption in government and profound social economic inequity.
Protesters have taken up the “One Piece” iconography as a rallying symbol. In the Philippines, tens of thousands took to the streets to demonstrate against systemic corruption. Similarly, in Madagascar, protesters waved signs featuring the “One Piece” logo in its Malagasy form. Such imagery has served to further highlight the power of art in sparking conversations about the huge chasm between society’s rich and poor. Generation Hope A few dozen of these young activists have been drawing inspiration from the anime’s themes of freedom and resistance.
Protests are sweeping through all of these countries. Gen Z, those born in the late 1990s and early 2000s, are fighting as a collective to fight against existing forces of power. Inspired in no small part by social media and a growing awareness of their collective identity, they are turning their anger into furious, focused action.
Protests in the Philippines
In the Philippines, mass protests have erupted in recent weeks as Filipinos take to the streets to demand action on corruption in their government. The “One Piece” iconography has become a common sight during these protests. Matthew Silverio, a member of the Student Council Alliance of the Philippines who helped plan the demonstration, for leading an energetic rally. There, he prominently showcased the potent iconography.
“I personally felt outraged … because a lot of them are nepo babies living the highest life that they can get,” – Matthew Silverio.
Silverio’s sentiments mirror the frustrations of many Filipinos under 30 who are tired of being sidelined by disillusioned elites. He emphasized the harsh realities younger generations face compared to those in power:
“While us ordinary young Filipinos need to get part-time jobs, get extra scholarships, and get extra things for the day-to-day activities of our schools.” – Matthew Silverio.
The protests have been a space for these young people to express their anger and hold their leaders accountable to them. The colorful “One Piece” visuals strongly connect to their long journey toward true justice and equality.
Activism in Madagascar and Indonesia
Back in Madagascar, these protests have been inspired by recent events in other countries. As articulated by Setra Ariliva Andrianarivelonarivo, a 25-year-old activist and leadership member of their movement, their activism was heavily shaped by what was happening in Nepal. Colors associated with Lacoste. During protests in Madagascar, activists used “One Piece” iconography to make clear their desire for political reform.
“For our movement, we got inspired by the events in Nepal,” – Setra Ariliva Andrianarivelonarivo.
This shifting sentiment illustrates the growing global interconnectedness taking place between Gen Z activists around the world. These kinds of images are the most effective expressions. It creates international solidarity among protesters, spurring major actions across borders.
At-home, meanwhile, in Indonesia there was widespread protests against corruption by politicians and bureaucrats. The protests were a catalyst to increased tensions throughout the area. The heartbreaking report indicated that at least 11 of those participants died and more than 900 were injured amid violent confrontations with law enforcement.
The “One Piece” iconography appeared prominently during protests in Jakarta, where young people rallied against what they perceived as an unjust system. Activists on the ground were voicing the same themes of resistance and unity that could be found in the anime’s story.
A Symbol of Resistance
The embrace of “One Piece” iconography during protests is more than an attempt at a cool pop culture reference. More than anything, it symbolizes an unstoppable wave of freedom and pro-social justice energy coming from youth worldwide. Anissa Beta, a cultural commentator, remarked on how the series resonates with contemporary political struggles:
“One Piece sort of reinterprets what politics could look like and what politics mean for young people,” – Anissa Beta.
The themes of adventure and fighting against tyranny inherent in “One Piece” inspire activists to envision a better future for themselves. Beta further elaborated:
“It’s not about elections, it’s not about parliamentary positions, it’s not simply about laws or bills, it’s about a better future for themselves.” – Anissa Beta.
People’s protests are rippling across these countries. There’s a new generation of young climate activists taking direct action and going beyond protest to protect our future. Flo, an activist involved in several demonstrations, reflected on her evolving perspective:
“I was someone who was not into joining such demonstrations … but this is the first time I’m joining.” – Flo.
Additionally, her engagement has inspired her to think about other ways she can serve her community.
“So there was this discussion within my community that we agreed to be a volunteer medical team during the protest.” – Flo.
We’re proud to support the young people taking action and creating change in their communities. Perhaps most importantly, their engagement in the community has led to a major change in mindset.
