VOICING DISSENT

Mooney traces the history of student-led protests in the U.S. and their influence on national discourse.

Mooney’s well-researched book weaves together landmark movements, like the civil rights sit-ins of the 1960s, anti–Vietnam War efforts, and the Black Lives Matter protests in the wake of George Floyd’s May 2020 murder, along with less well-known but significant campaigns, such as demonstrations during the Great Depression that led to government relief programs. Mooney captures both the idealism and the complexity of activism, noting its power to create change but also its risks: violent clashes with authorities or counter-protesters, infringement on others’ rights, and disruption to the public order. She spotlights successful grassroots youth movements like the March for our Lives, which focused on gun violence, and controversial protests like those at Columbia University against the Israel-Hamas War, which led to student arrests, suspensions, and expulsions. Mooney’s fact-driven tone makes this work useful for student reports but will feel detached to readers expecting an impassioned account. This valuable resource is both instructive, as it covers the historical context of protests as well as their legal implications, and timely, with its inclusion of topics such as digital activism.

A compelling exploration of a key aspect of civic engagement.