The recent protest in Mexico by Gen-Z against drug-related violence and the security policies of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is now sending a cultural wave across the world. Gen-Z, a generation known for thinking and acting differently, seems to have found a new symbol for protest: a cartoon skull wearing a straw hat.

Japanese pop-culture fans instantly recognise it as the flag from the popular anime and manga One Piece. The juxtaposition of a cartoon emblem with serious political demonstrations may seem unusual, but the gesture carries deep meaning for Gen-Z protestors who have taken to the streets not only in Mexico, but in several parts of the world.