ACLU Protesters' Rights
Comprehensive guide to your constitutional rights when protesting, including what police can and cannot do.
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Resource Directory
National Lawyers Guild
Free legal observers and support for protesters. Find local chapters and legal hotlines.
Protest Safety Guide
Essential safety tips including what to wear, what to bring, and how to stay safe in crowds.
Mobilize
Find local protests, rallies, and civic actions. Connect with organizers in your area.
WITNESS Media Lab
Best practices for documenting human rights abuses and recording encounters with authorities.
Street Medic Resources
First aid basics, how to handle tear gas exposure, and connecting with protest medics.
EFF Digital Rights
Protect your digital privacy at protests. Phone security, encryption, and surveillance awareness.
Community Bail Funds
Directory of bail funds across the United States. Support arrested protesters.
Signal Messenger
End-to-end encrypted messaging for secure coordination. Essential for organizers.
Conflict De-escalation
Techniques for maintaining peaceful protests and de-escalating tense situations.
Freedom of the Press
Resources for journalists covering protests. Know your rights as press.
Activist Wellbeing
Managing stress, processing trauma, and maintaining mental health during activism.
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Your Rights at a Glance
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Right to Protest
You have the right to peacefully assemble and protest in public spaces like sidewalks, parks, and plazas.
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Right to Record
You can photograph or record anything in plain view in public spaces, including police officers.
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Right to Remain Silent
You don't have to answer questions from police. Clearly state: "I am exercising my right to remain silent."
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Right to Refuse Search
You can refuse consent to a search. Say: "I do not consent to a search." But do not physically resist.
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Right to Leave
Unless detained or arrested, you're free to leave. Ask: "Am I free to go?" If yes, calmly walk away.
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Right to an Attorney
If arrested, you have the right to an attorney. Say: "I want to speak to a lawyer" and stop answering questions.
Emergency Resources
National Lawyers Guild Hotline
Search "NLG [Your City]"
ACLU Mobile App
Record & report incidents
Emergency Contact
Write on arm in sharpie
Legal Observer
Look for green hats
📋 Protest Checklist
Essentials
- Government-issued ID
- Emergency contact written on arm
- Cash (small bills)
- Fully charged phone
- Water bottle
- Snacks / energy bars
- Any necessary medications
Safety Gear
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Face mask / bandana
- Sunscreen / hat
- Eye protection / goggles
- Ear plugs
- First aid basics
Digital Security
- Disable Face ID / fingerprint
- Use strong passcode (6+ digits)
- Turn off location services
- Enable airplane mode when possible
- Back up your phone beforehand
- Download Signal app
- Know your local NLG number
Do Not Bring
- Weapons of any kind
- Drugs or alcohol
- Expensive jewelry
- Contact lenses (wear glasses)
- Anything you can't lose
- Unnecessary personal items
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Safety Guidelines
Plan & Prepare
Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return. Identify meeting points and exit routes. Go with a buddy when possible.
Stay Aware
Stay hydrated. Know where exits are. If things escalate, move to the edges. Don't run—walk quickly and calmly. Stay with your group.
If Exposed
Move to fresh air. Don't touch your face. Rinse eyes with water or saline (not milk). Remove contaminated clothing when safe.
Stay Calm
Don't resist physically. State clearly: "I am going to remain silent. I want a lawyer." Remember badge numbers if possible.