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Perhaps you’re someone who usually shies away from politics, but you feel your views shifting.

Maybe after recent events, you’re finally ready to say enough is enough. That’s great!

Human rights are a bipartisan issue and we can and should fight for them. Perhaps you’re already doing your part to help through calling your politicians, writing letters, and donating to causes that speak to you, but you haven’t yet attended a protest in person.

This article is for you.

I am not an expert or any kind of authority on the subject of peacefully protesting. I have not been extensively trained on this subject, although I have attended a few de-escalation workshops over the years. I have certainly never been paid to participate in a protest of any kind. But I am someone who has been attending peaceful protests for over 10 years, and someone who researches and writes for a living.

After the tragic murder of Renee Good in Minnesota, I felt afraid to show up to protests for the first time in my life. I also faced the realization that it is more important to show up now than ever before.

So, I decided to do a deep-dive refresher on how to peacefully protest, safely and effectively. I figured I’m probably not alone in feeling nervous, and there are plenty of others like me. If you’re someone who is considering attending a peaceful protest, but you don’t know what to expect, I wrote this for you.

I know it can feel scary, but this is a time in which we all must be brave. The celebrated activist Maggie Kuhn puts it perfectly:

“Leave safety behind. Put your body on the line. Stand before the people you fear and speak your mind—even if your voice shakes. When you least expect it, someone may actually listen to what you have to say.”

Why peacefully protesting matters 

The right to peacefully protest is one of our most important constitutional rights. Peacefully protesting is protected under The United States Constitution, so if you’re feeling called to participate in a peaceful assembly, know that you are within your rights.

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution states the following:

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

Now is your chance to use your voice, to protect your country and your neighbors, and to stand up for what you believe in.

Peacefully protesting can and has changed the world. According to an article published by the BBC, peaceful protests are much more likely to succeed than armed conflicts. Movements in which 3.5 percent of the population have shown up have never failed.

In the United States, that means we need about 12 million people to participate.  We’ve been close. It’s estimated that around 7 million Americans showed up to participate in the peaceful No Kings protest that occurred in October of 2025. If you’ve been considering attending, now is the time. Every single person counts. Your voice really does matter.

Preparing to attend a protest

If it’s your first time ever participating in a peaceful protest, you will probably want to attend an organized event. Protest organizers will do their best to get the word out in your community, so ask around. You can also do an online search or check social media.

Organizers of large-scale peaceful protests do their best to abide by local laws and regulations. They will ensure that there are plenty of trained volunteers to help keep things safe and peaceful. They will probably have medics standing by and people directing traffic. These types of protests feel a lot safer and more welcoming for first timers.

Do a little research before you go so that you know exactly what to expect. Sometimes you might be standing in a public park for a rally-like event, and other times you might be marching on streets or sidewalks. This information will likely be available to you online ahead of time.

Protests can be physically and emotionally intense. Come prepared with what you’ll need to stay comfortable. 

>> Download a map of the area that you can access offline or print one. Get familiar with the area before you arrive.  

>> Brush up on basic de-escalation tactics before you go so you know what to do if things get tense. 

>> You may want to pack some protective equipment. The Human Rights Campaign suggests “protective goggles or shatter-resistant glasses (for tear gas or irritants),” and “supplies to protect from and safely remove chemical irritants (face covering, milk of magnesia, towelettes).”

>> Pack some water bottles and healthy snacks, like energy bars or trail mix, to keep your body nourished. 

>> Check the weather and dress appropriately. Bundle up with layers if it’s going to be cold. Bring a battery-operated fan or bandana that you can soak in water if the temperature is going to be extremely hot. If it’s going to be raining, I love to paint an umbrella with waterproof fabric paint and use that as my protest sign. 

>> Make sure you have any medications you might need during a 24-48 hour period. Inhalers, epipens, and other critical medication is crucial. 

>> Make sure your phone is fully charged. An extra battery pack is a good idea. 

>> Memorize emergency contact phone numbers. Tell at least one friend or family member your plans and be sure to check in. Setting a predetermined check-in time is a good idea. 

>> Bring a buddy! Having a protest buddy (or several) is a great idea. Stick together. Plan a rendezvous spot in case you get separated. 

>> Wear comfortable shoes! Take it from someone who marched through New York City in cute little heeled boots and sorely (pun intended) regretted it—comfortable shoes are an absolute must. 

Digital protection 

>> Many protesters suggest encrypting your cell phone or turning it on airplane mode during a protest. Honestly, if the crowd is big enough you probably won’t have great service anyway. You can use encrypted apps like Signal to communicate if you need to. 

>> You may want to sign out of your apps, social media, and email accounts before attending. 

>> Back up your data in case your phone is lost or stolen. 

>> Take pictures to share on social media and spread the word, but avoid taking photos that show your fellow protestors faces unless you explicitly ask for permission. Some people won’t mind if you snap their picture. Others will. Don’t be offended if someone doesn’t want their photo taken. We’re all entitled to our privacy. You should also get comfortable telling people not to take your photo if you don’t want them to. Remember that no is a complete sentence. 

When you’re attending a protest  

>> Expect to see law enforcement officers. This can feel intimidating. Remember that you are within your rights to attend a peaceful protest. 

>> It will likely be loud. Protestors love to shout, sing, and chant. You’ll catch on quickly. Don’t be afraid to join in!  

>> It may feel chaotic and confusing at times, especially if you’re marching. Keep calm and maintain situational awareness at all times. 

>> Trust your gut, if things feel like they’re escalating, decide what you are comfortable with. If you feel unsafe at any time, remove yourself from the situation and seek safety. 

>> You may see counter protesters. They are allowed to be there just like you are. Law enforcement officers are required to treat protesters and counter protesters the same.

>> If you see something, say something. If you notice something off or suspicious (like an unattended backpack, a package, a vehicle, or a person’s behavior) speak up! Look for an organizer or law enforcement officer. Draw attention to it. Film it if you feel safe doing so. Most importantly,  get yourself to safety. 

>> The Human Rights Campaign suggests committing the OODA acronym to memory. Observe: identify the source of danger and your surroundings. Orient: determine where you are and where you need to go. Decide: choose a course of action that minimizes risk. Act: implement your decision and stay aware of changes in the environment

>> Always be ready to de-escalate tense situations. Keep your voice calm. Do not provoke law enforcement, counter protesters, or your fellow peaceful protestors. Walk away when you need to. 

>> Do not bring anything illegal. 

>> Do not do anything illegal. 

Know your rights 

>> According to the ACLU, your First Amendment rights apply in “traditional public forums” like streets, sidewalks, and parks. They may also apply in front of government buildings. 

>> You can not disrupt car or pedestrian traffic. Law enforcement officers can ask you to move to the sidewalk or to allow others to pass. 

>> You cannot block access or otherwise interfere with the purpose that public places were designed for. 

>> You have the right to take photographs or video recordings of anything, including law enforcement personnel, in public spaces as long as you are not impeding their duties. They can ask you to stop, but you don’t have to comply. Maintain a safe distance and do not get in their way. They should not ask you to delete photos or videos. If they threaten you physically or threaten to arrest you if you don’t stop, comply and then contact the ACLU. 

>> If you are approached by law enforcement, peacefully comply with what they’re asking you to do. Do not resist arrest or escalate the situation. State that you wish to remain silent and speak to a lawyer. 

I know it can seem intimidating at first, but attending an organized peaceful protest is also an incredibly rewarding experience. It can help you not feel so alone when you’re surrounded by like-minded people who are willing to stand up for what is right. It can offer hope. And you may even experience moments of joy.

Always remember that you are not alone and you are not powerless. Together we can change the world.

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