General Protest Information & Trainings
Guidelines For Protesting
- Stay out of the street.
- Allow people to pass on the sidewalk.
- Don’t confront antagonizes.
- Get help to De-escalate: Look for our Peacekeepers in Yellow Vests.
- Listen to messages: There might be an important announcement.
- Know your rights.
- Document everything.
- Stay hydrated.
- Protest safely.
Protest Safety Tips
Before the Protest
- Plan your route: Know how you’re getting there and back.
- Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable shoes and layers. Avoid clothing that could be easily grabbed.
- Bring essentials: Water, snacks, hand sanitizer, and a first-aid kit are good to have.
- Charge your phone: Have a full battery and consider a portable charger.
- Inform someone: Let a friend or family member know where you’re going and when you expect to be
back. - Understand the law: Research local ordinances regarding protests and your rights as a demonstrator.
During the Protest
- Stay aware of your surroundings: Notice exits and potential hazards.
- Stay with a group: Avoid being isolated.
- Remain calm: Even if provoked, try to keep your composure.
- Follow instructions from organizers: If there are designated protest leaders, listen to their guidance.
- Do not engage with counter-protesters: Avoid arguments or confrontations.
- Document incidents: If you witness any issues, try to record them without putting yourself at risk.
ABCDEs of Peacekeeping
- Assess
- Breathe, Focus, calm
- Choose to get involved OR not
- De-escalate (6 Ds)
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- Direct intervention
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- Non-threatening
- Low volume voice, slow moves
- Do not touch-especially police
- Consider humor or distraction
- Active listening- ask the person their side of the issue
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- Delay – wait it out
- Distract
- Delegate
- Distance – keep space between yourself and problem
- Document – if you film let people know and give them distance
- Direct intervention
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- Escalate – almost never and then only if it will help reach our goals
Examples of Protest Signs