Protests can significantly impact public policy by raising awareness and shifting public sentiment around specific issues. When citizens mobilize to protest, they often draw media attention and bring issues to the forefront of public discourse, pressuring policymakers to respond. Successful protests can lead to concrete changes, such as new laws or reforms, as seen in movements for civil rights or climate action. Moreover, protests can highlight systemic injustices, fostering a broader dialogue within society about equity, governance, and the need for policy change at various governmental levels.