For many protesters, identity is a big concern. They worry about being spotted by police, labeled as troublemakers or organizers, or recognized by employers or friends who may not agree with their stance.
As a result of those identity concerns, and because of cold weather, many protesters elect to wear bandannas or ski masks over their faces. Or, in John’s case, a Guy Fawkes mask—the mask of choice for members of the international hacktivist network Anonymous. I had seen John at most of the protests, usually because the mask caught my eye. On Monday night, we finally met.
Why the mask? I’m glad you asked. It’s for a few reasons, actually. First, it’s so I can be recognized as part of the community, as one of the protesters. People see the mask and they know I’m with them. It’s also to protect my identity. So I guess it’s to be recognized and unrecognizable at the same time. It’s also a sign that I support Anonymous, an organization I really wish more people would take the time to learn about.
Does it attract unwanted attention? Oh, absolutely. I have the mask as my profile picture on Twitter, and I get a lot of people trolling my account because of it. They say “I hate your mask!” and I’m like, “I think you just need a hug.” Once I was yelled at by a drunk guy while walking by a bar. I tried to get a picture with him, but he wouldn’t let me.
Have you always worn the mask? No, not always.
What was your first protest experience? It was May Day of this year.
And how was that? It was incredible. The sense of community was just overwhelming. Suddenly I was surrounded by all these people who were just instant friends. Everyone was shaking hands and hugging. It was amazing, something I’d never experienced.
So are the protests more about your desire for that sense of community or about the issues you’re protesting? It’s about both. The protests are made up of a community that I really care about and the issues affect them, so they affect me. In that way, all the issues are important to me because they’re important to my community.
Are any of the recent police-related cases particularly important to you? No, I can’t choose one. They all matter. You know, we always chant “Black lives matter,” but I think that’s just a metaphor. All lives matter. Any person that dies is a fucking tragedy.
Do you think those tragedies and these protests can make a difference? I think so.
What would that difference look like to you? I think if we can get just one, just one single case where one of these cops ends up in court, that would be a success.
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Profiles in Protest is an ongoing series spotlighting local activists involved in the Black Lives Matter protests. Read more interviews with The Maoist, The Vacuum Cleaner Salesman, The Donut Lady, Queen Pearl, The Master Student, and The Happy Warrior.
