The hottest Protests Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

Made-in-China Mess

Diane Francis • 339 implied HN points • 28 Nov 22
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. China's strict zero-Covid policies have led to widespread public protests as people become frustrated with ongoing lockdowns and health care failures.
  2. The country's vaccination efforts have lagged behind other nations, resulting in a higher number of Covid cases and deaths compared to places like India and the U.S.
  3. There are major economic consequences for China, including factory disruptions and a tarnished global reputation, prompting some businesses to consider relocating.

What Would You Do?

KERFUFFLE • 71 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. Many people misunderstand that protests can be spontaneous and not always organized by groups. This means the reactions during protests can be chaotic and unpredictable.
  2. When people feel their basic rights and families are threatened, they might turn to violent protests because they see no other way to fight back. Understanding this helps explain their actions.
  3. Political violence is often a last resort for people facing oppressive situations. It's important to recognize this reality, even if we don't agree with it.

Iran Update

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 5 implied HN points • 09 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. A nationwide wave of protests has spread to all provinces, starting in Tehran’s bazaar over a collapsing currency and rising food prices but quickly turning into broad anger at the clerical regime with people from many walks of life joining in.
  2. The government has moved to crush the unrest with brutal repression — dozens reported killed, thousands arrested, crackdowns in markets and hospitals, and a near-total internet blackout — highlighting a deep legitimacy crisis even without a single coherent leadership.
  3. International responses are mostly rhetorical warnings and condemnations while Iranian leaders insist protesters are foreign-backed; opposition figures have urged people onto the streets and parts of the financial sector appear sympathetic, but decisive outside action remains unclear.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Story Twenty-Eight

Stories From The Rail • 319 implied HN points • 11 Jul 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. The author reflects on the unique experience of visiting Minneapolis during a period of chaos and unrest, capturing moments of humor and danger in the midst of the turmoil.
  2. The writing process for the author was restricted due to potential legal implications, but now they feel a sense of relief and freedom to express their thoughts and experiences.
  3. The community dynamics observed in Minneapolis during the unrest showcased a blend of confusion, kindness, and unexpected moments of cooperation and courage among strangers.

Immigration protests and media distrust: Everything comes back to 2020

Unreported Truths • 62 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. The recent immigration protests in Los Angeles are serious, but the city's size means not everywhere is affected. Media reports can downplay the situation, but it's clear there's unrest.
  2. Past media coverage during protests, especially in 2020, has led to distrust. Many felt the media downplayed violence and unrest, saying protests were mostly peaceful when that wasn't the full story.
  3. The credibility of traditional media has been damaged since 2020. Some are skeptical of their current portrayal of protests, believing that the truth is not always fully reported.

Images From the Violent Protests in Downtown L.A.

KERFUFFLE • 51 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. There were violent protests happening in downtown Los Angeles recently. The situation seems intense and chaotic.
  2. Photographs were taken to capture the events of the protests. Images can provide a different perspective on what's happening.
  3. The person sharing these images has complicated feelings about the protests. They plan to share more thoughts on the matter later.

The Inauguration of Laura Rosenbury

Imperfect Information • 39 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. Laura Rosenbury was inaugurated as the ninth president of Barnard College after already being on the job for seven months.
  2. The past few months on campus have been tumultuous with protests, changes in policies, and reactions from various organizations.
  3. President Rosenbury faces challenges in leading the institution due to pressures from different groups, but her commitment to her role and the community is evident.

Story Thirty-One

Stories From The Rail • 239 implied HN points • 17 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. Scars and tattoos can hold personal significance and symbolize resilience and growth.
  2. Beauty standards and self-perception can change over time and be influenced by external factors.
  3. Facing adversity can reveal inner strength and a capacity for resilience and bravery.

02/07/14 - Weekly Roundup!

Moly’s Substack • 39 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. People in China are protesting for delayed wages and facing financial struggles due to the preparations for Chinese New Year.
  2. Severe snowfall in China has led to people getting stuck on highways and facing harsh conditions without electricity or food.
  3. Various incidents like building collapses, lack of fire safety equipment, stock market issues, and banking problems are causing significant concerns and unrest in different parts of China.

'Yes Kings!' Say the Cops

JoeWrote • 48 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. The recent 'No Kings' protests saw millions of Americans rallying against Trump, showing a deep divide in opinions among the public. Many people of different ideologies joined together to express their dislike for his policies.
  2. In Los Angeles, the police responded to the protests with aggressive tactics, using rubber bullets and tear gas despite the protests being peaceful. This has raised questions about the police's intent and their role in controlling dissent.
  3. Evidence suggests that the police were not acting in self-defense, contradicting their claims of needing to protect themselves from protestors. This highlights a concerning trend of police aggression towards peaceful gatherings.

Links to Consider, 3/4

In My Tribe • 258 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. In social justice, the mindset often involves a pattern of one group having agency but lacking feelings, while the other group has feelings but lacks agency.
  2. Smartphones and social media have shifted the internet from a decentralizing force to a centralizing one, enabling control over personal information and public discourse.
  3. The Insurrection Act of 1807 could lead to mass protests and arrests, with responses to such situations risking being condemned as authoritarian or fascist.

Gussie Grips rips Scottish Parliament a new a-hole.

A B’Old Woman • 179 implied HN points • 26 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. A recent change in Scottish law makes it easier for people to change their legal gender. This has raised concerns about whether it will affect single-sex spaces.
  2. Elaine Miller protested against these reforms by making a bold statement in Parliament. She used a shock tactic to draw attention to her message.
  3. The protest sparked mixed reactions online. While some supported her boldness, others found it inappropriate, showing the divide on the issue of gender and sex rights.

The Lottery

Disaffected Newsletter • 239 implied HN points • 02 Oct 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. There was a live protest against child-transitioning activities in Vermont, highlighting strong community feelings on the topic.
  2. There were discussions about how silent protesters faced angry reactions, showing how charged the situation was for everyone involved.
  3. The author is facing a tough time at work due to a smear campaign, which is affecting their career after 20 years.

FCK NZS: How noble protestors "against the right" assembled yesterday evening at the Dresden Altmarkt to shout about Alternative für Deutschland and finally defeat the Nazis

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 227 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. Protests against right-wing ideologies are diverse and unpredictable, bringing together a mix of participants like university students, LGBTQ+ groups, and elderly individuals.
  2. The protests often have dramatic and theatrical elements, such as fake emergencies and unwarranted fears of counterprotestors, contributing to a chaotic atmosphere.
  3. Despite the grand displays and intense emotions, the actual presence of the targeted group, in this case 'Nazis,' is often minimal or non-existent, resulting in a skewed focus during the demonstrations.

Movements: Europe, 1848 & USA, 1968, 2011

Banana Peel Pirouette • 59 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. Europe in 1848 and the USA in 1968 and 2011 experienced significant social movements driven by economic crises, political repression, and the desire for political participation and nationalistic aspirations.
  2. The aftermath of these movements saw a shift towards pragmatism and administrative changes in governance, increased focus on economic growth, infrastructure improvement, and a move towards political centrist coalitions.
  3. Occupy Wall Street in 2011 symbolized a global shift in revolutionary tactics with a focus on economic inequality, corporate influence, and sparked conversations on privilege, exclusion, and cultural transformation that have since permeated mainstream politics and societal values.

Zombie misinformation

Conspirador Norteño • 36 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. Misinformation can spread quickly on social media, especially older bad advice that suddenly becomes popular again. It's important to critically evaluate advice circulating online, especially in chaotic situations like protests.
  2. The 'sit down wave' meme told protesters to sit down during violence, but this is a dangerous idea. It can make people vulnerable and unable to escape harm.
  3. Even when misinformation is debunked, it can still go viral. People should be careful about sharing unverified content, especially from popular accounts.

False Flag Attack

KERFUFFLE • 35 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. Waving Mexican flags in protests can symbolize pride and solidarity among immigrant communities, especially during challenging times.
  2. In past protests, the visibility of Mexican flags was criticized, but the current environment shows a shift in focus from seeking acceptance to defending against aggressive policies.
  3. Protesters aren't waving flags to win over public opinion but to affirm their identity and resist what they see as an attack on their community.

The Summer of Protest Is Here. This Primer Will Help You Understand What You See.

Proof • 33 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. Corporate media and far-right groups have made it harder for people to understand protests. They have created confusion around the language we use to talk about these events.
  2. It's important to change how we discuss protests to ensure everyone gets a clearer picture of what is happening. Better communication can help educate the public.
  3. Being informed about the context of protests can help people form their own opinions, instead of relying on misleading narratives from the media.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz calls for nationwide protests to defend democracy against the consequences of his own policies

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 216 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz calls for nationwide protests to defend democracy against the consequences of his own policies
  2. Approval ratings for the German government have fallen to all-time lows due to misrule and failure
  3. Anti-government protests erupted across Germany in response to dissatisfaction with the current leadership

How the leaders of the Great German Farmers' Protest are committed to neutralising their own movement, and what the farmers must now do if they want anything to change

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 207 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. Leaders of the German Farmers' Protest are working against their own movement by focusing on narrow issues like diesel taxes
  2. Farmers need to broaden their focus and aim for wider political change to succeed
  3. The current leadership of the farmers' movement is compromised and farmers may need to work independently for real change

On Liedowns and the 'Meritocracy'

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Protests
  1. The 'lying flat' movement in East Asia is a response to the pressures of a work-centric culture. People are choosing to step back from overwork and stress, promoting a lifestyle that values rest.
  2. In the West, similar movements like 'The Great Resignation' don't capture the same spirit as 'lying flat.' Many see these Western protests as just a shift from corporate jobs without addressing the core issues of work-life balance.
  3. Top athletes like Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles show that even successful individuals can feel overwhelmed by expectations. Their decision to prioritize mental health challenges the idea of the meritocracy, where success often comes with endless obligations.

Reality Optional-Episode 89

Disaffected Newsletter • 159 implied HN points • 10 Oct 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. Media often responds untruthfully to protests and events, which can skew public perception. It's important to critically evaluate news coverage.
  2. Journalism has shifted towards misleading narratives rather than factual reporting. Trust in news sources has become a significant issue.
  3. Some medical institutions are reevaluating their practices regarding gender transition surgeries for minors, indicating a growing concern in the medical community.

Trump Prepares Washington, DC For The Public Backlash.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 18 implied HN points • 11 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. People are really upset with both the Democrats and Republicans. Many think the next elections will be a big chance for independent candidates.
  2. There's a strong feeling that the way politics is handled now isn't working, and protests may become more common as people demand change.
  3. A lot of voters are registering as independents instead of sticking with the usual parties. This shift shows a growing desire for new ideas and leadership outside traditional politics.

When University Presidents Turn Partisan

Heterodox STEM • 206 implied HN points • 08 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. University presidents should maintain institutional neutrality and avoid taking partisan stances.
  2. Civil discourse should be encouraged in universities to allow for open discussions and diverse perspectives.
  3. Actions from university leaders can impact the unity and climate within the university community.

June 15, 2025

Letters from an American • 25 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. A gunman attacked Democratic lawmakers in Minnesota, killing two and injuring others, which raises concerns about political violence in the country.
  2. In response, millions of Americans participated in peaceful protests against Trump’s authority, showing a strong rejection of his leadership style.
  3. Trump's recent statements and policies regarding immigration are unpopular, reflecting a decline in his support and suggesting that his power may be weakening.

A Bit of a Rant

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 22 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. A new bill is likely to pass in the Senate that could take away health insurance from 15 million people and hurt the environment. This feels like a serious threat to the country's future.
  2. Many people in the U.S. seem unaware or detached from these issues. There is a feeling that normal protests are not enough to address the scale of the problems we face.
  3. To protest effectively against the current government, economic noncompliance or general strikes might be more impactful than traditional protests. It’s frustrating to see people stay passive instead of taking action.

Days of government-sponsored protests and state media campaigns against the AfD have failed to break support for the party, and still less to solve any of Germany's problems

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 159 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. Government protests and media campaigns against AfD did not reduce party support or solve Germany's issues.
  2. Despite efforts by the government, AfD's poll numbers did not significantly decrease.
  3. Criticism of the government may be fueling support for AfD, showing a disconnect between the establishment and the electorate.

France Burning

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 239 implied HN points • 03 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. France is experiencing significant unrest with thousands of vehicles torched and buildings damaged.
  2. The unrest is being linked to issues of racism, colonialism, and police violence towards minorities.
  3. The riots are seen as part of a globalist agenda to counteract nationalist politics and reshape society.

June 8, 2025

Letters from an American • 25 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. Trumps' administration is trying to crack down on immigration by increasing arrests and deportations, even targeting people who have no criminal records. This creates fear and instability for many families.
  2. Protests have erupted in Los Angeles against ICE actions, with clashes between protesters and law enforcement escalating. These protests show strong community resistance against the government's immigration policies.
  3. Governor Gavin Newsom criticized Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard in California as unnecessary and harmful. This highlights the tension between state and federal responses to the immigration crisis.

This Is Not A Peasant's Revolt

Surfing the Future • 19 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. Farmers protesting against certain aspects of the EU Green Deal are not comparable to historical peasant revolts.
  2. Many of these protesting farmers benefit from significant subsidies and are entrenched in unsustainable agricultural practices.
  3. Farmers resisting change in agriculture are delaying the necessary shift towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly system.

June 10, 2025

Letters from an American • 24 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. President Trump is using the issue of immigration to silence critics and control protests. He has threatened severe actions against those who oppose his policies.
  2. Local officials believe that Los Angeles can manage the situation without federal intervention, but Trump continues to push a narrative of crisis and violence.
  3. Governor Newsom has condemned Trump's actions, warning that they represent a broader threat to democracy and urging people to stand up against authoritarianism.

June 9, 2025

Letters from an American • 23 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. A recent bill proposed by the government is expected to benefit wealthy individuals while hurting the middle and lower classes. Many Americans think this bill prioritizes the rich over everyone else.
  2. The current immigration enforcement actions have led to serious conflicts, including federal agents arresting people without proper warrants. This is creating a lot of tension and protests across the country, especially in Los Angeles.
  3. State officials are pushing back against the federal government's actions, arguing that deploying military personnel without their consent is an abuse of power. They are taking legal steps to stop these moves and protect their communities.

Did German domestic intelligence services collaborate with Correctiv journalists to smear Alternative für Deutschland and incite the current wave of protests "against the right"?

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 137 implied HN points • 27 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. There are suspicions of collaboration between German domestic intelligence and Correctiv journalists to incite protests against the right.
  2. Correctiv, a non-profit funded by left-leaning entities, published a questionable exposé that sparked controversy.
  3. The events raise concerns about political manipulation and staged protests orchestrated by major parties.

More on the Violence in L.A.

KERFUFFLE • 21 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests
  1. There was violence during recent immigration protests in Los Angeles, with protesters throwing rocks at police vehicles. This shows a tense and escalating situation between protesters and law enforcement.
  2. The California Highway Patrol responded to the chaos by closing parts of the freeway, indicating that safety was a major concern during the protests.
  3. A detailed discussion on the events is available through an interview, presenting different perspectives on the situation in Los Angeles. Listening to it can provide more context about the unrest.

Europe dismisses German protesters at its peril

CIEO • 19 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Protests
  1. Governments in Europe must gain approval for net-zero policies or face widespread backlash.
  2. German protesters are expressing discontent over rising costs and income inequality.
  3. Popular movements and strikes in Germany parallel similar issues faced in other countries.