The past decade has brought record numbers of Americans to the streets to speak out against critical issues: gun violence, racial injustice, police brutality and reproductive rights.
Most recently, the killing of two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis and countless reports of harassment and unconstitutional raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have sparked coast-to-coast protests, several of which are planned for this weekend.
Although protests are an important way to enact change, protesters face real risks from violence from counterprotesters, law enforcement responses, and health concerns when large groups gather.
Learn more: What can you legally share about ICE raids on social media? I discovered
CNET does not encourage violation of curfews or legal restrictions. However, if you’re attending a protest, here’s how to protect your physical and digital safety with advice from Amnesty International, the American Civil Liberties Union and other sources.
Prepare
Preparation is crucial. Here’s what to consider bringing and leaving behind:
What to bring:
- A body camera Or GoPro
- Water and snacks
- Face mask (risk of transmission outdoors is lower, but masks still help prevent the spread of disease)
- Hydroalcoholic gel
- Phone loaded with a power bank
- ID and cash
- Protective glasses against tear gas
- Essential medicines like inhalers
- Small backpack
- Emergency contacts written on your arm in marker
- A companion or tell someone your location if you are going alone
What not to bring:
- Anything that poses a problem in the event of detention: weapons, objects that could be considered weapons or illegal substances
- Contact lenses (wear glasses – contact lenses can trap tear gas)
- Valuables
- Makeup (can help tear gas stick to skin)
What to wear:
- Warm, comfortable clothing without logos or patterns
- Long sleeves and pants to protect against tear gas and cover identification items such as tattoos
- Sturdy shoes for quick movements (hiking shoes recommended)
- A hat to protect yourself from the sun or blend in with the crowd
What to do with your phone
As our partner site PCMag reports, your phone can be an asset in terms of security, but also a liability during demonstrations. “Many smart devices track your location in several ways. This is useful for getting directions and finding nearby objects, but it can also allow law enforcement to extract your movements after the fact. For example, photos you take with a smartphone frequently include their physical location, and Google Maps keeps records of your movements in its Your Timeline section.”
With that in mind, here are four simple steps you can take to mitigate mobile tracking:
- Turn off the Wi-Fi.
- Turn off location services and Bluetooth until you absolutely need them.
- If you don’t need to use your data connection, turn it off (note that this may hinder your ability to use encrypted communications).
- Again, if you can, leave your phone at home – if not, at least turn it off.
During a demonstration
Make a plan before you arrive at the event and let someone know where you plan to be and when.
Anadolu/Getty ImagesMake a plan before you arrive, including how and when you plan to leave. Decide on your arrival and departure times, what situations would cause you to leave, and how you will get out if things get out of hand. Share this plan with someone at home who can help you if needed.
Stay aware of your surroundings and crowd movements. If something goes wrong, leave immediately.
Law enforcement may use tear gas, rubber bullets, or other crowd control measures that could cause injury. Your best protection is to quickly create distance from these situations. If this is not possible, research first how to respond to these specific threats.
Health precautions
Outdoor gatherings carry a lower risk of COVID, flu and colds than indoor gatherings, but the risk remains, especially for immunocompromised people. Full protection means not attending, but you can reduce the risk by:
- Wear a mask
- Use hand sanitizer frequently
- Stay home if you feel sick
- Avoid protests if you live with high-risk people
Know your rights
The First Amendment protects peaceful assembly, but you still risk detention. Before participating:
- To research “[your city] protest legal support” to find local helplines
- Save these numbers on your phone and write them on your arm
- Review Your Rights During Protests Using the ACLU Guide
