In the late 18th century, placing a sprig of hemlock in one's hat symbolized resistance to perceived governmental tyranny. During Shays' Rebellion (1786–1787), insurgents—many of whom were discontented farmers and war veterans—adopted this emblem to signify their opposition to oppressive economic policies and unjust governance. This act of defiance underscored their readiness to challenge authority in pursuit of justice and equity. It signaled that the wearer was an outlaw, someone who stood against the ruling order, a person willing to fight against injustice rather than bow to tyranny. It was a mark of resistance, a declaration that the individual refused to be governed by a corrupt system.
Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States recounts how this symbol was used by rebels and resisters—ordinary people who refused to accept the corruption and oppression of their time. It was a mark of resistance, a declaration that the individual refused to be governed by a corrupt system. And honestly, this is where I got the idea.
Perhaps we can learn something from history.
Today, that tradition takes on a renewed meaning. As we watch democracy buckle under the weight of lies, corruption, and authoritarian ambition in Trump’s regime, we find ourselves in a moment where defiance is once again necessary. The institutions meant to safeguard our democracy are under attack—from the courts to the ballot box, from the free press to the very idea of truth itself. The tactics of fear, intimidation, and misinformation seek to silence dissent and punish those who dare to stand against the creeping shadow of authoritarianism.
Wearing hemlock in my hat is a recognition of that history and a commitment to the fight ahead. It’s a reminder that we are not alone. Across the country, millions are resisting—not with violence, but with the power of truth, the persistence of organizing, and the unwavering belief that democracy is worth defending. We are voting, marching, exposing corruption, and refusing to let lies stand unchallenged. If this purge of democratic values continues, then violence against our oppressors is the next logical conclusion.
We are the outlaws in a system that demands our compliance with its corruption. We are the ones who refuse to surrender to despair or apathy. The hemlock in the hat is a message to those who would see democracy fall: We see you. We will not be silent. And we will not stop fighting. Ever.
Hallahan, William H. (1987). "A Horrid and Unnatural Rebellion: Daniel Shays." American Heritage. Retrieved from https://www.americanheritage.com/horrid-and-unnatural-rebellion-daniel-shays.
Zinn, Howard. 2015. A People's History of the United States: 1492-Present. Harper Perennial Modern Classics.