A Guide to Safe, Nonviolent Protesting

Ten resources on protesting safely and effectively

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

In light of the events in LA and the threat of military deployment by the Secretary of Defense, it is essential that every protester understand their rights, have tools to deescalate others, and know how to prepare.

The final resource explains the effectiveness of nonviolent protest.

“If campaigns allow their repression to throw the movement into total disarray or they use it as a pretext to militarize their campaign, then they’re essentially co-signing what the regime wants — for the resisters to play on its own playing field. And they’re probably going to get totally crushed.”

We must remain firm in our resolve.

Share this widely. Stay safe. Stay peaceful. And happy dissenting.

NOTE: These articles are resources to use at your discretion. I am not the author. I have selected them due to their expertise in their respective fields.

JUNE 14 LINKS

Here is the LIST of sites & MAP of protests.

TIPS FOR PROTESTING

ONE | Know your Rights

This article by the ACLU outlines the rights of organizers and participants. Read it.

TWO | What to Bring

Wondering what you ought to bring to a protest? This article by the Association of Flight Attendants has compiled a list on what to wear, what to brings, what not to bring, and more. Read it.

THREE | Understand the Dos and Don’ts

50501 has compiled great list of Dos and Don’ts. It’s brief and it’s easy to follow.

FOUR | Learn How to Protest Safely

We want every dissenter to return home safely from every demonstration. This article by NRDC packed with helpful information on how to protect yourself and others.

FIVE | Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion & First Aid

As we head into the summer, it is essential that we understand the dangers of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially in large crowds or warmer climates. Though many organizers have a volunteer medic on their team, everyone should be prepared to render aid.

The Nation Weather Service has a simple guide to identifying heat stroke and how to provide first aid.

SIX | Protect your Data

Electronic Frontier Foundation has created a guide to protecting your data.

SEVEN | Plan Your Protest Well

A well-planned protest can go a long way to keeping everyone safe. Whether you are expecting a dozen people of thousands, take time to plan.

Here are a few resources:

No Voice Unheard Toolkit
50501’s Sample Safety Plan
Indivisible’s Group Support Hub

EIGHT | Learn De-Escalation Techniques

Organizers, marshals, and protestors can benefit from safety and de-escalation techniques. Here are a few options to receive training:

Indivisible Virtual Trainings (Live)
Hands Off De-Escalation and Safety Training (Pre-Recorded)

NINE | Learn How to Calm your Fight or Flight Response

Whether it be the presence of crowds, police, or counter protestors, demonstrations are rife with panic inducing triggers. This article by Neurodivergent Insights provides insight and tools.

TEN | Understand and Spread the Word about the Principals of Nonviolent Resistance

Regimes invite violence. It justifies further violence. We must not give it to them. Here are a few articles on this topic:

Nonviolent Resistance Proves a Potent Weapon
The Power of Peaceful Protests
6 Principles of Nonviolence (This site also has audio recordings)
The ‘3.5% Rule’: How Small Minority Can Change the World