In the early days of World War II, when Nazi Germany occupied Norway, open protest was dangerous. Speaking out could mean imprisonment. Gathering in groups could bring severe consequences.
So the Norwegian people chose something small.
They began wearing paperclips on their lapels — a quiet but powerful symbol that they were “clipped together.” Bound by shared values. Bound by courage. Bound by their commitment to democracy.
Even this small act of solidarity was eventually banned by the occupying regime.
That’s the power of a simple symbol.
Why Indivisible Las Vegas Embraces the Paperclip
At Indivisible Las Vegas (ILV), we believe democracy is strongest when everyday people stand together — visibly, peacefully, and with purpose.
The paperclip represents exactly that:
- Unity over division
- Courage over complacency
- Community over isolation
- Democracy over authoritarianism
It is not about fear.
It is not about violence.
It is not about partisanship.
It is about solidarity.
ILV has organized peaceful demonstrations across Southern Nevada — on the Strip, in the Arts District, near the Federal Courthouse, in Summerlin, in Henderson. We coordinate responsibly. We work with local authorities. We show up prepared and peaceful.
The paperclip is an extension of that spirit.
It says:
We are here.
We care.
We are paying attention.
We stand together.
A Visible Reminder That We Are Not Alone
In moments when national politics feel overwhelming, it is easy to feel isolated. It can feel like you are the only one concerned. The only one worried. The only one paying attention.
The paperclip changes that.
When you see someone else wearing one, you know:
You are not alone.
There are others who value democracy.
There are others committed to protecting constitutional rights.
There are others willing to stand up — peacefully, responsibly, and together.
That quiet recognition builds strength.
And strength builds movements.
Small Action. Big Meaning.
The Paperclip Resistance is not about shouting the loudest. It is about showing up consistently.
It is about neighbors standing with neighbors.
Volunteers standing with volunteers.
Community members standing with one another.
Indivisible Las Vegas is a volunteer-powered organization. We do not have paid staff. We do not have a large operating budget. What we have is people — people who care deeply about democracy and are willing to act.
The paperclip is a reminder that we are clipped together in this work.
Join the Paperclip Resistance
Wear a paperclip.
Start a conversation.
Bring a friend.
Show up.
Stay engaged.
Democracy is not self-sustaining. It depends on us.
And together, we are stronger than we think.