Die-in - Definition and Overview

Die-In protest against 2003 invasion of Iraq in Sheffield, United Kingdom.

Die-ins are a form of protest where participants simulate being dead (with varying degree of realism). Possible motivations include:

• prevention of violent conflict, war
• raising awareness of an existing conflict
• expressing disapproval of technology which is perceived as deadly

In the simplest form of a die-in, protestors simply lay down on the ground and pretend being dead, sometimes covering themselves with signs or banners. Much of the effectiveness depends on the posture of the protestors, for when not properly executed, the protest might look more like a "sleep-in". For added realism, simulated wounds are sometimes painted on the bodies, or (usually "bloody") bandages are used.

Die-ins were a popular form of protest around the world against the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

See also : self-immolation