Besides raising awareness / breaking through the media bubble, mass protests like these are great for: 1. Allowing occasional protestors or even spectators to realize they’re not alone in their dissatisfaction with authoritarianism, and that realization can drive them to (organized) action instead of just doomscrolling, and 2. Connecting protestors with resistance organizations where they can put their newfound sense of community to work for more non-cooperation than just sign waving. Like there are often tables and booths at these protests staffed by resistance organizations looking for people ready to get involved.

Mass protests are a tool in the resistance tool belt. They aren’t by themselves sufficient for toppling a dictator.