Issue and Opponent: The Spanish government introduced legislation in 2015 that would subject millions of citizens to disproportionate fines and even jail time for exercising their right to freedom of expression, assembly, protest, and information.
Dilemma Action: On April 10, 2015, the first hologram protest was organized and performed in Madrid by No Somos Delito– a platform of over 100 groups against the repressive legislation. The use of the holograms was intentional, as the protestors claim that holograms would soon be the only way to protest in Spain. The protest took place in front of parliament and included a screening of previously filmed protests. The campaign also included a webpage that allowed individuals from around the world to post their holograms, written messages, or shout-outs.
Outcomes: This protest gained the attention of the international press and had significant positive reactions worldwide. As of 2017, more than 800,000 people saw the campaign and 300,000 signed an online petition to abolish the law. However, no concessions were made, and the law, coined “the gag law,” proceeded to be passed. There is no evidence of punishment being enacted as a result of this action.