Public protests can have a significant impact on US politics by shaping the public discourse, generating media coverage, and forcing elected officials to take notice of issues that are important to the American people. For example, the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s, which was characterized by peaceful protests, helped to bring about important reforms, including the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

While everyone may not choose to participate in a protest, it is important for all citizens to exercise their right to free speech and to take part in the democratic process. Participating in protests can be an effective way for individuals to have their voices heard, to engage with others who share their concerns, and to work together to bring about change. However, it is important to note that protests should be peaceful and respect the rights of others, as violent or disruptive protests can undermine the credibility of the cause and harm public safety.

Here are some resources that offer a range of perspectives on the history, impact, and effectiveness of public protests in the US, as well as how protests intersect with issues of race, class, and gender. Reading and watching a variety of resources can provide a more nuanced understanding of the complex ways in which protests have influenced US politics and society.

Books:

• "A People's History of the United States" by Howard Zinn

• "Why Civil Resistance Works: The Strategic Logic of Nonviolent Conflict" by Erica Chenoweth and Maria J. Stephan

• "This Is an Uprising: How Nonviolent Revolt Is Shaping the Twenty-First Century" by Mark Engler and Paul Engler

• "The Power of Protest: A Visual History of the Moments That Changed the World" by Brenda Ralph Lewis

Publications:

Publications such as The Nation, Jacobin, The Intercept, and Democracy Now! are a few of the many pulications that share a commitment to progressive values and advocacy for social and political change. They often provide alternative perspectives to mainstream media coverage and are known for their critical analysis and investigative journalism.

Documentaries:

• "13th" (2016) directed by Ava DuVernay

• "Whose Streets?" (2017) directed by Sabaah Folayan and Damon Davis

• "I Am Not Your Negro" (2016) directed by Raoul Peck

• "The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution" (2015) directed by Stanley Nelson

There are also a number of organizations that individuals can join or support to help ensure that public protests remain a political tool and that citizens know they have the right to use them and recognize when to best use them. Here are some examples:

• American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): The ACLU is a nonpartisan organization that works to defend and preserve individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution and laws of the United States. They provide resources and support for individuals who want to engage in peaceful protest and advocate for greater protections for free speech and the right to assembly.

• National Lawyers Guild (NLG): The NLG is a national organization of lawyers, law students, and legal workers who provide legal support and education for activists and social justice movements. They offer training and legal representation for those engaging in protest and civil disobedience.

• Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ): SURJ is a national network of groups and individuals working to undermine white supremacy and to work for racial justice. They provide resources and support for individuals and organizations engaging in racial justice work, including protests and direct action.

• The Movement for Black Lives: The Movement for Black Lives is a coalition of over 150 Black-led organizations that work to build power, community, and transform the material conditions of Black life. They support and encourage peaceful protest and direct action to bring attention to the issue of police violence and racial inequality.

• Amnesty International USA: Amnesty International is a global human rights organization that works to protect people from human rights abuses and promote human rights around the world. They provide resources and support for individuals and organizations engaging in peaceful protest and direct action to promote human rights and social justice.

By joining or supporting organizations like these, individuals can help ensure that public protests remain a political tool and that citizens have the knowledge and resources to engage in peaceful protest and direct action.