“In sign out”: An analysis of in/out-group dynamics as represented in Israeli judicial reform protest signs

This case study analyzes protest signs displayed during the period of January to August 2023 by civil society demonstrators opposing the proposed judicial reform in Israel. Through the social identity theory theoretical framework, we explored how these signs serve as a collective tool for enhancing in-group identification. In total, 437 signs collected through various means were qualitatively analyzed via inductive and deductive thematic analysis. The results elucidated how the direct or implied referencing “us” and/or “them” in protest signs functioned as a mechanism to enhance in-group identification: (a) forging group identity and virtuous attributes, (b) delineating group desires and aversions, (c) building group resilience via ethos and history, and (d) strengthening group coherence. We conclude that the act of bearing protest signs and the content therein not only represent social empowerment but also powerfully symbolize the inherent collective strength of an emerging, resilient, and steadfast civil society committed to liberal democratic ideals.