Old Age Protestors: Who Knew?

Due to recent societal events, a growing number of individuals have participated in protests. Ranging from climate change to political power, people have spoken up against the tough parts of society, and in doing so, have brought awareness to the underlying issues. Hence, the number of news articles and broadcasts about these demonstrations has also increased. However, something most people have not witnessed on the news is old protestors. In reality, though, many individuals call themselves OAP—old age protestor—but the world is the only part preventing their stories from being revealed. 

One example of an OAP dates back to June 2024, when an act of pure climate activism occurred. Rajan Naidu, 71, and Niamh Lynch, 21, found themselves at a crossroads. With the ever-changing state of the climate, they wanted change, even if they were on completely opposite sides of their lives. In connection with Just Stop Oil, a UK-based nonviolent, anti-climate change group, they facilitated one of the most gorgeous and representative moments in climate activism. 

Together, these individuals coated the famous Stonehenge historical site in a nontoxic, orange powder made from cornflour and food coloring, all while recording the entire act of defiance. After the effort, the group sat quietly around the monument as time crept slowly by, waiting and waiting until the police came. Then, everyone, including Rajan Naidu, was arrested on video. They were content, though, because their actions spoke much louder than those of the police, and their ultimate goal of spreading awareness was achieved.

In another instance, a group of senior citizens stood together in protest against the ongoing debate against social security in the United States. Based in Oakland, CA, about 40 elderly people from a local old folks home, Rockridge, rallied together for the future—the future of themselves, their children, and their grandchildren. Some of them, including Jody Strohl, are pushing a hundred, but as she told Oaklandside, “‘I’m 98 and I can’t do much anymore, but I feel I have to do something.” Thus, the collective did exactly what Judy said.

Sitting and standing, or whatever position they found themselves in with canes, wheelchairs, and walkers, they showed their passion for themselves and their families. Together, they held signs reading “Tax the rich,” and “Stop Trump and Musk,” and each time, they loved it more and more. With every demonstration, some members had flashbacks to the sixties and seventies during the Vietnam War, because even then, they came together to show that change was imminent. 

In all, the actions of these OAPs show that older people can also make an impact on the world. Whether they have participated for years or only due to recent events, their voices are equally as important as any younger, spry individual. So, remember, anyone—no matter age, gender, race, or more—can make a difference in this world, just as long as they are willing to take the chance to challenge the odds of society.