How to make an anti-ICE protest banner for use at a protest. Protest banners grab attention. They speak boldly when words are silenced. At anti-ICE protests across the country, these vinyl banners tell stories of injustice and demand immediate change.
In cities like Portland, Chicago, and El Paso, banners have appeared in marches, vigils, and sit-ins. They’ve been held above crowds, dropped from bridges, and carried through neighborhoods ICE patrols.
This guide will walk you through the steps to create your own powerful anti-ICE protest banner. Examples can be found on Tik Tok.
Why Anti-ICE Protest Banners Matter
ICE has become a symbol of fear and separation. Communities have suffered from raids, detentions, and deportations. Families have been torn apart.
Across the U.S., protesters raise banners to challenge this system. During the 2019 “Lights for Liberty” march in Chicago, bright signs reading “Abolish ICE” lit up the night. In New York, organizers blocked intersections with massive banners demanding justice for immigrants.
Banners serve more than one purpose. They inform, unify, and disrupt. With a strong message, your banner can appear in media coverage and amplify your voice far beyond the streets.
Step 1: Choose a Strong Message
Start with your core message. Decide what you want your banner to say.
Consider these examples:
“Abolish ICE”
“No Human Being Is Illegal”
“Close the Camps”
“End Family Separation”
“Freedom for All”
Keep the words simple and direct. Messages under five words work best. Make sure people can read it quickly—even from a distance.
Try writing several versions. Say them out loud. Choose the one that feels urgent and bold.
Step 2: Pick the Right Type of Banner
Different protests call for different banner styles. Choose one that fits your action plan.
Handheld Banner
Best For: Marches and street protests
Size: 2–4 feet wide
Benefits: Easy to carry, quick to make
Drop Banner
Best For: Hanging from overpasses or balconies
Size: 4–10 feet or more
Benefits: High visibility, makes headlines
Reminder: Check local laws before dropping a banner
Pole Banner
Best For: Large rallies and public demonstrations
Size: 5–8 feet wide
Benefits: Visible above crowds
Tools: PVC pipe, broomstick, or flagpoles
Each style has its strengths. Match your banner to the space and situation.
Step 3: Gather Your Supplies
Use what’s available. Look around your home, ask friends, or visit a thrift store.
Materials You’ll Need:
Fabric: Old bedsheets, canvas, blackout cloth, or painter’s drop cloth
Paint: Acrylic works best; spray paint is another option
Brushes: Wide brushes for large letters, small ones for detail
Markers: Thick permanent markers for outlines
Stencils: Optional but great for neat letters
Tape, rope, or grommets: Helps hang or secure your banner
Poles or sticks: For handheld or pole banners
Chalk or pencil: Sketch before painting
Repurposing materials reduces waste and keeps costs low. Every banner can be made affordably.
Step 4: Plan and Sketch the Design
Lay out the fabric. Smooth it flat and tape the corners to keep it steady.
Sketch your message lightly with chalk or pencil. Center the words. Leave space around the edges for clean framing.
Use bold block letters. Avoid cursive or thin fonts—they’re harder to read from a distance. Capital letters create a louder, more forceful message.
Consider adding simple symbols. A broken chain, a cage, or a heart can visually support your message. Keep it clean and bold.
Making an Anti-ICE Protest Banner
Additional Steps On How To Make an Anti-ICE Protest Banner
Step 5: Paint With Purpose
After sketching, begin painting each letter carefully.
Tips for Success:
Use dark paint on light fabric or white on black for maximum contrast.
Apply two coats for stronger visibility.
Let paint dry fully before moving or folding the banner.
If using spray paint:
Work in a well-ventilated space.
Use stencils for clean lines.
Cover surrounding areas to avoid overspray.
Place cardboard or tarp underneath to prevent paint from bleeding through.
Step 6: Add Support Structures
Decide how the banner will be used—held, hung, or dropped.
For Holding:
Attach sticks or poles to each side. Use strong tape, zip ties, or rope to secure them tightly. Make sure the materials are lightweight yet firm.
For Hanging:
Sew loops at the top or use grommets. Thread rope or bungee cords through to fasten it to fences, poles, or walls. Weigh down the bottom so it hangs straight.
For Drops:
Reinforce the top edge. Use a wooden dowel or pipe for structure. Attach ropes for a controlled drop from bridges or buildings.
Always test the setup beforehand. Practice holding or hanging it before the actual protest.
Step 7: Understand the Legal Landscape
Protesting is a constitutional right, but the law varies depending on location and method.
Street protests are protected under the First Amendment.
Banner drops from buildings or overpasses may require permits.
Blocking traffic or trespassing may lead to arrest.
Contact local activist groups for guidance. Organizations like the ACLU offer protest legal support. Always carry the number of a legal observer or hotline during actions.
Step 8: Bring It to the Protest
Your banner is ready. Now bring it to the front lines.
Real-World Examples:
Portland: Activists hung “Abolish ICE” banners from freeway overpasses.
Los Angeles: Protesters waved “No More Cages” signs at the ICE field office.
New York City: A huge cloth banner reading “Shut Down ICE” blocked 5th Avenue.
El Paso: Community members held homemade banners outside the local detention center.
Banners often end up in press photos. Design yours with media visibility in mind. Use large letters and high contrast colors.
Step 9: Store and Reuse Your Banner
After the protest:
Fold the banner carefully.
Let any remaining paint dry fully.
Store it in a cool, dry place.
Reuse it for future actions. Update it with new messages if needed. You can also lend it to other organizers in your network.
Durable banners can live many lives—and continue spreading your message.
Final Thoughts
Please remember to demonstrate peacefully. Violence serves no purpose or criminal activity. Keep Safe !
