To protest is to express objection to an idea, a cause, a position or an action.  The ability to express one's opinion freely and peacefully is one of this country's great strengths.  It allows all points of view to be heard and thus considered.  I have always thought that holding up a sign in public in protest over something you feel strongly about takes a lot of courage and commitment.

There are many ways to protest, some more visible than others - from privately boycotting a company's or nation's products or services; to sending a letter of protest to an organization; to publicly protesting; and to circulating or signing a petition of change.