This is perhaps the most important page of this website. These are all tips and tricks used by seasoned protestors that can be used to keep yourself safe;
- Educate yourself about the reasoning behind the protest
– This seems self-explanatory, but some people go to protests without knowing what they are actively protesting. Take some time a few days before the protest to educate yourself and ensure you are comfortable defending the reason behind the protest.
2. Mentally prepare yourself
– While at the protest, you could experience various emotions and feelings. You might see a example of discrimation or hate. Preparing yourself for whatever could happen while you are there is necessary.
3. Wear non-distracting clothes and hide all identifying characteristics about yourself
– Most organizers ask protestors to wear black to help them blend in with each other. They also cover any tattoos, piercings, or unnatural hair colors to make sure that you aren’t as noticeable and, therefore, easy to track.
4. WEAR CLOSED-TOE SHOES
– Most protests involve a portion of time walking or marching through the streets. You are also going to be surrounded by a lot of people. Just wear the closed-toe shoes; it’s common sense.
5. Form a group and make a plan
– Groups can have up to six (6) people and are used to ensure the safety of everyone in the group. You all can look out for each other in case things go wrong. Groups can set up meet spots and ensure that everyone in the group arrives and leaves the protest site safely. Also, sharing emergency contacts is not a bad idea.
6. If posting on social media, ensure that others in the photo/video know they are in it.
– This is another safety issue. If someone with hostile intentions manages to find the media, then you are at risk, and the people in the media are also at risk.
These are the primary few rules that many protestors swear by. Of course, there are others that vary from each protestor, but these rules are the most consistent throughout the community.