▪ Remember: the point of a protest is to be disruptive. Nonviolent does not mean non-disruptive or non-confrontational. An acceptable protest is an oxy-moron.
▪ Identify the Marshals, and other leaders, so that you know who to follow and/or contact in case of concern.
▪ Use good judgment:
– Be cautious of people soliciting funds
– Don’t leave with people that you don’t know
– Bring a buddy
▪ Dress comfortably: wear good shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
▪ Be on the lookout for people who are there for nefarious reasons.
▪ Plan how you’ll get safely to and from, and where you’ll meet your group if you get separated.
▪ Do research in advance about the background on the issue, and the plans for the protest.
▪ Don’t talk to the press or the police, unless given specific instructions by the organizers.
▪ Decide ahead of time whether you’re willing to risk arrest.
▪ Respect and honor the feelings and expressions of those for whom the stakes are the most high.
▪ Don’t engage with counter-protesters.
▪ Know your rights. The ACLU offers a helpful pocket guide for protestors called Know Your Rights: Demonstrations and Protests. It’s available at https://www.aclu.org/sites/default/files/field_pdf_file/kyr_protests.pdf.
▪ You have permission to leave if you are overwhelmed or afraid, or if the event changes in a way that makes you uncomfortable.