There must be 50 ways: Participating in democracy #20: Display symbols and signs

There is a reason people die carrying a flag. Showing colors and symbols is an emotional declaration of loyalty and commitment. There is a reason gang colors are against the dress codes of high schools in areas infested by gangs--those colors may precipitate violence, even shootings in and around school buildings.

There are also excellent reasons peace and environmental activists fly the earth flag, a flag that doesn't oppose other flags, and a flag that shows disrespect toward none--and isn't offended if it touches the ground. 

Bumperstickers, t-shirts, ball caps, pins, yard signs, and all manner of symbols and signs are a way to participate in democracy. If a neighborhood shows many signs for one candidate, others in the community can be influenced to go along, or at least not display an opposing sign. 

Like all the other ways to participate in democracy, it is not enough to wear a pin, fly a flag (or even lower it to half mast or fly upside down to indicate distress), slap on a bumper sticker, or wear a messaging t-shirt--but it is one of so many ways to exert some influence in a democracy. Going from no participation to displaying a yard sign is movement, a good start!