How To Protest Safely

Protesting is a very important part of fighting for ideas you believe in, and it can help your community in issues you care about. Here is how you can participate in protests and marches safely.

Prepare Beforehand

To make sure everything goes to plan when participating in a march, you should always plan ahead.

What to Bring and Wear

Having a backpack with all the necessary items is really helpful while marching. Some items you can bring are water, snacks/lunch, sunscreen, and anything else that will help your experience. Keep in mind that having a light backpack is best. Try to wear light colored clothes to keep cool, and good walking shoes so you are comfortable.

Make a Sign

Many people bring signs to marches and it is an easy way to show more support. To make your sign easy to read, make sure your letters are big and blocky. You can also add a stick to the back of your sign to make it easier to hold. You don't have to be creative, just do your best! If you are having trouble coming up with what to say, you can always look up ideas online. When you leave the march, you can give your sign to another protester or dispose of it properly, whether that means throwing it out there or taking it home.

Have A Meeting Spot

There is always a chance someone can get lost, especially with large crowds and many people. If someone does get lost, you can easily find the person at your meeting spot. Some tips for making one are having it somewhere close-by so that everyone can get to it easily, as well as a place everyone can get to without a map.

Write Down Phone Numbers

If anyone gets lost, it is important for anyone without a phone to know a trusted adults’ phone number. Even if you know it by heart, you should still write it down on your arm so you can contact others. In a time of stress anyone can easily forget the number when panicked.

During The March/Protest

Be Aware

Make sure you know what is happening around you, and especially where the protest route is headed. You should follow the protest organizers as they have already planned where the protest will happen, and where the route will go.

Use the Buddy System

If you are in a larger group, using the buddy system can be a good tool to make sure no one gets lost. Everyone should have a partner that they can always see in case anything happens.

Hydrate Often

Protests can take place in harsh heat and you will likely be standing up or walking for hours. It is easy to get dehydrated in those conditions, so drinking water frequently can prevent this from happening.