Reddit always held the power in this relationship - They will get their way and plow forward - the subs will re-open and people will keep using their site - those of us who left and pealed off to Lemmy or kbin aren't going to be a devastating blow..

BUT - the protest DID have an effect, not only symbolic, it also helped tarnish their image some and likely lowered their valuation some at a time they're wanting to maximize it for a future IPO ... so while we're likely helpless on the fact that Reddit will win the war, at least we got a good punch in.