The Slogan That Sticks (Image Credits: Unsplash)
New York City – A vivid protest sign featuring an orange monarch butterfly has emerged as a potent emblem in demonstrations challenging President Donald Trump’s second term.
The Slogan That Sticks
Protesters first popularized the phrase “the only orange monarch we want is a butterfly” during nationwide “No Kings” rallies in 2025. This clever wordplay juxtaposed Trump’s distinctive complexion with the regal title of “monarch,” while invoking the delicate insect as a preferable alternative. The message quickly resonated, appearing on handmade posters and digital prints sold online.
Critics of the administration seized on the imagery to decry perceived authoritarian tendencies. Demonstrators carried signs at events in Washington, D.C., Boston, and Los Angeles, blending humor with pointed political critique. Etsy listings and social media posts amplified the design, turning it into a shareable staple of resistance art.
Spotlight on a New York Moment
In early 2026, a particular iteration of the sign surfaced amid street protests in New York City. Captured by artist Denise Canniff, the image gained prominence through its publication in The Nation under the title “Orange Monarch.”[1]
The artwork highlighted the ongoing fervor in urban centers, where crowds gathered to voice opposition to executive overreach. Canniff’s contribution fell under the outlet’s OppArt section, underscoring its role as opinion-driven visual commentary. Such pieces often distill complex sentiments into accessible visuals, fueling broader conversations.
Why the Butterfly Resonates
Monarch butterflies, known for their striking orange wings and migratory prowess, carry layers of symbolism. Native to North America, they represent transformation and resilience – qualities activists contrast with visions of unchecked power. Environmental advocates also note the species’ endangered status, adding urgency to calls for protection amid political turmoil.[2]
The design’s simplicity aids its spread. Unlike dense text or caricatures, the butterfly invites immediate understanding. Protesters adapted it for various causes, from rejecting “kings” in democracy to lawn reform rallies where natural imagery aligned with anti-artificial themes.[3]
- Clever pun on “orange” ties directly to personal appearance critiques.
- Visual appeal makes it ideal for rallies and merchandise.
- Evokes nature’s democracy, countering monarchy metaphors.
- Versatile for digital sharing on platforms like Instagram and Etsy.
- Links to real-world conservation efforts for added depth.
From Streets to Screens
The sign’s visibility extended beyond physical protests. Media outlets documented its presence at major events, including a 2025 gathering on Boston Common.[4] Online, variations proliferated, with printable versions fueling home-based activism. This grassroots momentum mirrored earlier movements where symbols like pink hats defined eras of dissent.
HuffPost captured similar displays in the nation’s capital, where demonstrators hoisted the butterfly amid chants against monarchical rule.[5] Such imagery sustains morale, offering levity in tense times.
Key Takeaways
- The “orange monarch” motif originated in 2025 “No Kings” protests and persists into 2026.
- Denise Canniff’s New York City capture elevated it to national art.
- Its blend of humor, nature, and politics ensures viral potential.
As protests evolve, this butterfly reminds observers that symbols can flutter across divides, challenging power with grace. What symbols have you seen rising in recent rallies? Tell us in the comments.
