Safety, Security, and Non-Violent
Protesting Preparedness

*Excerpted from Indivisible.org

Organizing and protesting in this new environment can cause feelings of doubt and despair, and we recognize and share those concerns. There are no tips or steps that can fully guarantee your safety or that of your group members and volunteers. Additionally, the risk level of different actions may vary depending on your identity, location, political climate, and other factors. When planning an action, your responsibility is to take reasonable precautions, and you have all the necessary information to make informed decisions for yourself.  

Know Your Rights at Protests

Activists should know their legal rights to participate safely in protests. They should understand their rights to assemble, record incidents, and avoid self-incrimination. Being prepared for police interactions and knowing how to document rights violations can help protect your group.

  • Right to Assemble: Public spaces (streets, sidewalks, parks) are protected for public demonstrations. You can legally photograph or video any public activity in plain view, including police actions.

  • Permits: You do not need a permit to protest on sidewalks or streets as long as you do not block traffic. Large events or amplified sound might require permits—check local regulations.

  • Non-engagement with Hostile Individuals: If approached by someone aggressive, encourage participants to avoid engaging and maintain a safe distance. Notify an event organizer if needed.

When attending events, it is important to consider how your actions impact the safety of those around you. Here is additional guidance from Black Lives Matter:

  • Ask for permission before livestreaming event attendees on your personal social media pages - this material is often used to vilify protestors by police. Only livestream to document the police presence at the event. If you do livestream, consider doing so from a group account. 

  • Taking photos of the event? Be sure to blur identifiable features of attendees before posting on social media. 

  • Protect and support high-risk protesters - ensure that BIPOC and high-risk group members are kept at the center of the protest to shield them from police or ICE.

Engaging with Law Enforcement

Designate a police liaison—either a group member or a trusted community partner—who can communicate with law enforcement on your group's behalf. This person should explain your group’s nonviolent goals, address any concerns from law enforcement, and help keep communication open if tensions occur.

If Approached by Law Enforcement

Remaining calm and knowing your rights can make a difference when law enforcement approaches you. This section provides strategies for handling these encounters, including how to document them if you believe your rights have been violated. Recording details, collecting witness contacts, and knowing what to say can help you address concerns later.

  • Stay calm and Composed: Keep your hands in view and refrain from arguing or resisting police. Ask if you are free to leave; if permitted, walk away quietly.

  • Documenting Violations: If you believe your rights were violated, record the details such as officer badge numbers, witnesses, and any injuries, then report them later to a civilian oversight agency.

Dealing with Orders to Disperse

Law enforcement should issue dispersal orders only when absolutely necessary. When they do, it’s essential to stay calm, follow instructions, and prevent the situation from worsening. Always comply with dispersal orders calmly to avoid escalation.

De-escalation Tips for the Day of the Event

  • Remain Calm and Stay Alert: Advise participants to be aware of their surroundings and steer clear of direct interactions with aggressive individuals.

  • Maintain a Supportive Stance: Use calm, open body language, keep personal space, and display neutral facial expressions and gestures.

  • Active Listening: Sometimes, allowing someone to vent can help diffuse a situation. Focus on common concerns instead of disagreements.

Additional Resources for Activist Safety & Security