August 22, 2020
By: H. Elizabeth Williams
How to protest safely during a global pandemic: If you are going to protest for a great cause it’s important that we remain cautious since it is during a pandemic. It’s important to keep your distance, wear a mask and take care of yourself in face of those who oppose the cause. Below is a list of what to wear, what to bring, what not to do and a list of your rights that you should know while protesting. Black Lives Matter!
What to wear:
Shatter-resistant goggles. A lot of these protests WILL have tear gas from the police so you need to be prepared if they turn towards you. I recommend this for all protestors. It definitely made the tear gas easier on me.
Closed-toe, comfortable shoes. Remember you are going to be going long distances.
Black, baggy clothing covering as much skin as possible. It's a good idea to wear all black, both because that's what the organizers of most solidarity protests suggest and because it helps you blend in with a crowd. It's also recommended that you cover any tattoos, if you can, and that you hide your hair if it's dyed a distinctive color.
Face masks. There's still a pandemic going on. Take precautions and cover your face with a mask or bandana. Face coverings also have the benefit of shielding your identity from cameras and police surveillance. Bring an extra mask if you have one.
Hats. Aside from shielding you from the sun during a long day of marching, hats and sunglasses can obscure your face from surveillance and protect your privacy. If you wear a hat, and you're interested in further protecting your identity, keep the brim low.
Bandana soaked in water/lemon juice/vinegar because it will make it easier if you are tear-gassed.
What to bring:
A backpack. Make sure it’s small and durable. Use a cheap one just in case you need to lose it. Fanny packs also come in handy for stuff you need to access easily. Be sure to avoid anything too bulky.
Water with a squirt top. There's a good chance that your protest will include a march. Temperatures are climbing across the country, and you'll likely be chanting, so you need to pay attention to proper hydration. Bring the biggest bottle that you can fit in your bag. Water can also be used to clean wounds and flush the eyes of anyone who's been hit with chemical gas or pepper spray.
IDs and emergency contact information. If you're detained, not having your ID on you might keep you stuck for longer. However, in some states, you might not have to show the police your ID if they ask for one. Use your best judgment, and consider looking up the laws for your state for more specific guidance.
Maybe your phone. To protect your privacy and prevent surveillance, the best thing you can do is leave your phone at home. Consider using a burner phone instead. If you want to bring your phone, avoid using traditional phone calls and texts if at all possible. You should disable biometric unlocking, like FaceID or fingerprint features, and use a six-digit passcode instead. If you do need to carry your primary phone, keep it turned off until you absolutely need to use it. This will make it harder for law enforcement to track your movements.
Cash. Just like your phone can leave digital breadcrumbs indicating your whereabouts, using your debit or credit card will make it easier for the authorities to track your movements. Instead, bring cash. Separate your bills; stash some in your bag, and keep some on your person, either in your shoe, your bra, your pants pockets, or somewhere secure.
A power bank.
First aid kit.
Hand sanitizer. Remember we are in the middle of a pandemic, and you may find yourself holding another's hand or tripping while running from cops. Trust me, it’s going to happen.
A group to go with! Use the buddy system!
A change of clothes. If you're protesting on a particularly hot day, you may want to have extra clothes. These can also come in handy if you're exposed to substances that can hurt your skin or if you're splashed with paint, gross road water, or other people's sweat. I usually carry a pair of shorts, a tank top, and an extra pair of socks in my backpack.
Snacks. You are likely in for a long day. Pack lightweight, nutritious, protein-rich snacks. Jerky, energy bars, and nuts are all good picks.
Protest signs. Make sure that your slogan is big and can be easily read from far away. Poster board is flexible but foam board is more durable. And don’t litter- when you’re done with your sign dispose of it properly or donate it to another protestor. Or, just keep it. I’m going to keep my sign and share it with my children one day.
Others: A cooling towel, extra hair ties, pen and paper, a sharpie, ear plugs, eye drops, a flashlight or headlamp, and a copy of emergency phone numbers and a card declaring necessary medical information that someone may need to know if you're unable to tell them yourself (for example, if you have asthma or if you're hard of hearing). Medications that need to be taken on a schedule (in a labeled prescription bottle if possible) with the understanding that you may be away from home much longer than anticipated.
Know your rights!
To know why you are being arrested
To remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately
To make a local phone call that the police cannot listen in on
To refuse a search of yourself and your belongings (they can pat you down)
Police may not confiscate, demand to view or delete your photos or data
Don’t:
Wear contacts
Forget to hide identifiable features
Wear vaseline, mineral oil or oil based sunscreen and makeup
Rub your eyes after being exposed to tear gas, mace, pepper spray, etc.
Police others’ behavior
Forget to blur protestors’ faces and turn off location services in all apps, especially if sharing photos to social media
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