The ability to protest is a fundamental right under the First Amendment and can be one of the most effective and important means of showing support for a cause. However, there are limitations on free protest, so it is important to understand what rights you have when protesting.
- The First Amendment guarantees the right to protest, but there can be limitations including public v. private property, and restrictions on when and where protests can take place. It is important to know that the government cannot tell you what you are and are not allowed to say, with certain exceptions such as inciting violence.
- While you have the right to protest, it is still important to listen to instructions from police. Failure to do so can lead to your arrest and can put others in danger.
SAFE PROTEST PRACTICE TIPS
- Always attend a protest with a friend and make sure that someone who is not at the protest knows where you are.
- Wear appropriate clothing, including long sleeves and pants, wear glasses instead of contact lenses, and secure your hijab with magnets rather than pins.
- Arrange for a group such as the National Lawyers Guild or ACLU to provide legal observers and ensure that you have a phone number for jail support.
- Use encrypted messaging apps such as Signal and use an alphanumeric password for your device(s). If you post photos, delete metadata, blur people’s faces, and do not tag the location.
- Listen to police instructions. If you are arrested, please contact a criminal defense attorney or CAIR-Georgia as soon as possible.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES