Protest Advice - Tumblr Posts
I have an upcoming protest and thought I would use this time to share protest safety and preparation:
The list will include both safety tips, as well as a packing list. If you have anything more to add, please feel free to do so in the comments and tags.
1- Always always always make sure there is someone outside the protest that knows your location and how long you will be there
2- In a similar vein, make sure you either have someone on the outside’s contact information memorized or written down somewhere on your body (preferably somewhere concealed, police have been known to target people with visible phone numbers on them)
3- Wear long leaves and pants to prevent any small scratches if you fall or have to get down, as well as any chemical irritation from tear gas
4- This may be a given, but good walking/running shoes
5- Conceal face and any identifying features like tattoos or unique hair dye colors/patterns
6- Don’t wear contacts or eye makeup, it can cause irritation in the event that tear gas is used
8- If you must bring your phone, turn off Face ID/thumbprint recognition, data, Bluetooth, location, and wifi and keep it in airplane mode
9- Have a buddy system, do not go alone
10- Don’t take photo/video of anyone else there without consent, especially if you have intent to post it
11- If you do post anything, use several layers to cover any faces, names, or other private information, and take a screen shot or recording to post to remove any metadata
12- If you see someone getting arrested, try to get down their full name and date of birth to get them from the station later. Similarly, if you are arrested, do not talk to the cops, and make sure someone else there gets your full name and date of birth.
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Packing list:
- Lots and lots of water
- Earphones/plugs (not over/ear)
- First aide kit
- Snacks
- Cash/change
- ID
- Washcloth
- Clothing layers
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Avoid Bringing:
- Jewelry
- Incriminating items
- Valuables
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Many protests go off swimmingly and safely, however you have to always be prepared for the possibility that things could go wrong, even in a peaceful protest. Stay safe out there and keep others safe out there as well.