Stay safe when you attend public demonstrations!
This is a month when there are many reasons and opportunities to exercise your First Amendment rights by participating in rallies and public demonstrations. But, even peaceful gatherings can become unruly. They might be targeted by disrupters that create conflicts or draw law enforcement attention.
Consider your personal safety first when you plan to attend public rallies,. Here are some tips that can help you to be prepared:
- Arrange for an emergency contact. Let someone who will not be at the event know where you are heading and when. Carry this person’s name and phone number with you.
- Explore the geography of the gathering place in advance. Make an exit plan and share it with your emergency contact and any people going with you.
- Wear clothing suited to the weather and comfortable shoes. Bring bottled water and snacks just in case you need to stay in place longer than planned.
- Keep cool if you encounter hecklers or counter-protesters. Ignore the heckling and step away. Alert the event organizer or marshal about such encounters.
The League of Women Voters US offers a more
detailed list of suggestions.
Know your rights. You have the right to public speech in public places, but sometimes events get complicated. Review these tips from the
ACLU.