Every movement needs a logo– or does it?

First, a quick visual summary of the “raised fist” of solidarity and resistance:

https://docs.google.com/present/edit?id=0AVvVpJApPj-LZGM0cTJjcWRfNjdmNWMyYjRjNw&hl=en_US

Looking at the #occupy movement, you’ll see that it’s not particularly “branded” — it’s expressed. What I mean by that is that the imagery that represents the movement is imagery that individuals within the movement have chosen at particularly times to express particular Ideas and feelings. As much as the movement is about “we” it’s really about preserving the worth of individual expression.

In this way, banding, or logo design, could conceivably be understood as antithetical to #occupy. I think the issue is more subtle. What’s important, I think many folks will agree, is about using consciously the powerful semiotic tools we see codified in good branding. Logos can say a lot. Sometimes they can say little, and prevent a lot from being said. It’s this particular spectar of homogenization that rightfully concerns many protectors and their allies— any brand that aims to unite us all will surely leave many of us out, and render diverse perspectives unrepresented.

I offer the following image in tribute, in admiration, not in summary.