Gen Z protesters in Mexico have adopted the “Straw Hat Pirate” flag from the anime series One Piece, joining a global pattern of youth-led demonstrations that previously contributed to government changes in Nepal and Bangladesh. The symbol has appeared at protests across multiple countries, representing themes of freedom and opposition to corruption.
Mexico Joins Global Trend of Gen Z Demonstrations
The protests in Mexico mark the latest instance of Gen Z-led activism following similar movements that played roles in political upheavals in Nepal and Bangladesh. Mexican demonstrators displayed flags featuring imagery from One Piece during their protest marches.
Origin of the Straw Hat Pirate symbol
The flag references One Piece, a widely popular anime and manga series. It features a skull-and-crossbones design topped with a straw hat, which serves as the emblem for the protagonist’s crew in the series.
Visual appearance at demonstrations
Protesters in Mexico, the Philippines, and Nepal have carried flags matching the design used by the Straw Hat Pirates in the series. The distinctive skull-and-crossbones with straw hat imagery has become recognizable at youth protests.
Symbolism behind the flag
Within One Piece, the flag symbolizes freedom, resistance, and defiance against oppressive systems. Gen Z protesters have embraced these themes as motivation for their demonstrations against corruption and political grievances.
Global appearances of the symbol
The Straw Hat Pirate flag has appeared at protests in multiple countries:
Indonesia saw its first appearance during 2023 protests in Yogyakarta, with widespread visibility in 2025 demonstrations.
Nepal’s Gen Z protesters used the symbol during anti-corruption protests that preceded the fall of the government.
The Philippines featured the flag at events including the “Trillion Peso March” against corruption.
France has seen protesters carry versions of the flag at demonstrations targeting political elites.
Madagascar’s Gen Z activists modified the symbol by replacing the straw hat with a local bucket hat to reflect their cultural identity.
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