Protest Narratives Shift: Activist Liz Highleyman Highlights Dual Media Framing of Demonstrators

Activist and commentator Liz Highleyman recently drew attention to a perceived evolving media strategy in characterizing protest movements, noting a stark contrast between initial demonization and subsequent dismissal. In a recent social media post, Highleyman observed, > "First they scaremonger that the protesters are going to be radicals, terrorists, foreigners — then they complain that they’re older, white, normal-looking." This statement underscores a critical shift in how demonstrators are presented to the public.

Historically, media and authorities have often framed protest participants with labels designed to delegitimize their actions and objectives. Terms such as "radicals," "terrorists," and "foreigners" are frequently employed to evoke fear and undermine public sympathy, suggesting that movements are driven by dangerous or external elements. This initial portrayal seeks to isolate protesters from the mainstream and justify potential repressive responses.

However, Highleyman's commentary highlights a subsequent pivot in this narrative, where the same movements, once demonized, are then dismissed by characterizing participants as "older, white, normal-looking." This alternative framing, while seemingly less aggressive, can serve to downplay the urgency, diversity, and genuine grievances driving the protests. It suggests a lack of broad-based support or radical intent, potentially reducing the perceived threat and impact of the movement.

Experts in media and political science have long studied the strategic use of framing in shaping public perception of protests. Research indicates that media portrayal can significantly influence public support, elite responses, and the ultimate success or failure of protest movements. Governments, in particular, often leverage media narratives to control the public discourse around dissent, either by highlighting potential violence and disruption or by minimizing the movement's significance.

Liz Highleyman, known for her commentary on social justice and activism, brings a perspective rooted in extensive engagement with protest dynamics. Her observation points to a sophisticated manipulation of public perception, where the aim is not just to discredit, but also to control the narrative by adjusting characterizations to suit the prevailing political agenda. This dual strategy poses a challenge for both media outlets striving for objective reporting and the public seeking an accurate understanding of social movements.