Students have the right to be able to protest, but we need to do it in a safe and protected way so we don’t end up hurt or in jail. For example, you should know that you have freedom of speech because of the First Amendment, but it doesn’t mean it protects all types of speech.
If it is on private property, the owner may set rules or limits on your freedom of speech. If you do not follow those rules, they can order you off their property, and you can be arrested if you don’t comply or leave the property.
In some places, you might need a permit to walk or protest, such as a parade or a march that doesn’t take place on a sidewalk.
A few things you should do before going to a protest include staying hydrated, charging your cell phone, wearing protective goggles in case of tear gas and having an emergency contact that knows where you are and keeping them posted on your status during the event.
You should always know where you are and have an offline map with you to navigate where you are at all times to ensure you’re safe. You should always have more than one route in and out of the protest area. You should always stay focused and maintain awareness of your surroundings; you need to identify possible dangers or hazards. You should stay calm and focused.
What you should not bring to a protest is anything that is illegal or can be used as a weapon to harm yourself or others. Nor should you wear contact lenses because that can trap tear gas in your eyes, which can be dangerous. Leave valuable items at home.
If you are being detained, do not resist arrest; that would only further escalate the situation. You have the right to remain silent, and you are able to get a lawyer and do not have to explain or negotiate.
When you are done with the protest, you should contact a friend or family member who was your emergency contact to let them know that you’re safe.
