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Is there any way to safely protest?

Question: I really want to join the protests, but I’m also really afraid of contracting the coronavirus and spreading it to others. I’ll admit, I’m also afraid of the police. Is there any way to safely protest?

Answer: Thank you for asking this question. I have the same desire and fears. And I am feeling so much admiration and gratitude for the heroes who are out there protesting. If you do choose to go protest, here are some recommendations based on my own understanding of virus transmission and also advice several public health experts have shared in the last few days, including in yesterday’s Washington Post article.

Protesting during the Pandemic:

  • Masks: Wear your face mask to limit the spread to others in case you are asymptomatic.
  • Hand sanitizer: Bring hand sanitizer and use it.
  • Eye protection: Bring shatterproof googles and wear them too. If they get foggy, you can use your own spit to clean them. As discussed in Q&A of 4/4, goggles may offer protection from COVID. They will definitely help protect your eyes from potential tear gas exposure.
  • Distance: Keep your distance from others as best as possible. You know the 6+ feet rule, but in the context of a protest this guidance seems extra challenging. At the very least, stay with your group and minimize contacts with others.
  • Location: Stay outside and keep moving. Try and stay upwind.
  • Yelling: Try to avoid yelling as it can spread respiratory droplets further. Bring drums, noisemakers, and carry signs instead.
  • Feeling unwell?: Please don’t go.

Other Protesting Suggestions (non-COVID-related):

  • Know your rights. ACLU shares a great list its website. For ease of reference, I’ve copied below ACLU’s list.
  • Bring essentials:
  • Backpack
  • Water and snacks — Keep hydrated and use bottles with squirt tops are preferred so that you can use them to rinse your eyes out and skin off if exposed to tear gas. Note: water and other saline eye rinse solutions are recommended treatment (use water, not milk!).
  • Cash
  • Identification + emergency contact information
  • Your phone and charger
  • Medications
  • Extra change of clothes in a plastic bag
  • Hat for sun protection
  • Avoid wearing make-up, sunscreen, or other oil-based lotions that could trap tear gas.
  • Amnesty International offers a synthesis of protest recommendations.
  • Showing Up for Racial Justiceoffers “Guidelines for White People Showing Up at Black-Led and People-of-Color-Led Protests”

And if you decide not to protest in the streets, you can still be engaged! For example, 26 Ways to Be in the Struggle beyond the Streets offers 26 suggestions.

ACLU Know Your Protest Rights

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