How To Stay Safe During A Street Protest or Riot

 

There is no single right way to protest. Whether you’re chanting on the frontlines or helping distribute water and supplies in the back, whether you’re sitting quietly outside of a government building, marching down the middle of the street, or taking actions to put corrupt and abusive police on the defensive, you are contributing to the movement.

If you are going to protest in the streets, it is important that you take steps to protect yourself. While it is true that you have the legal right to peacefully protest government actions; if the government was acting in a fair, just, and responsible manner you probably wouldn't need to take your protest to the streets. Understand that if you protest in the streets YOU WILL BE TARGETED by the police and other government agencies. This targeting may take the form of intelligence collection (you are listed in police and intelligence databases), or arrest, or direct violence from police and military forces.

The following articles offer some advice about how to stay safe while protesting in the streets...

How to Gear Up for a Protest 

What to Know Before Heading to a Protest 

How to Stay as Safe as Possible While You Protest 

Protest Guide: Dress for Success (and Survival)

Protesting George Floyd's Death Safely (USA Today)

So You Want to Protest: A Beginner’s Guide (Seattle Weekly) 

If you are a journalist covering street protests, the guide "Police, Protesters and the Press" may be of interest.