A brief field guide for peaceful resistance
Peaceful protest is one of the oldest forms of American participation—a reminder that power still answers to people. Whether demonstrations rise in response to authoritarian overreach, attacks on rights, or local injustice, the principles are the same: show up, stay calm, move together, and keep it nonviolent. Authoritarianism grows when people stay home and look away; it recedes when enough of us stand together in public and say no. We do not need everyone, just a steady, disciplined presence large enough to be seen, heard, and impossible to ignore. Numbers create safety, and clarity creates momentum.
A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping you and the folks beside you safe and effective. Whether this is your first protest or your fiftieth, a quick refresher on safety and rights helps everyone show up with confidence. Peaceful assembly is protected by law, and the most durable movements pair courage with discipline. Know your rights, plan ahead, move with a buddy, and look out for one another so the message stays clear and everyone gets home safe.
The following guide includes sections on everything from phone security to what to do if tear gas or pepper spray is deployed. It isn’t exhaustive, but it covers the essentials to help you stay safe, focused, and effective. While most protests remain peaceful and orderly, it’s still worth understanding how to stay calm and protect yourself if something unexpected happens. Being ready for the worst doesn’t mean you expect violence—it means you value safety, solidarity, and the ability to keep your protest nonviolent even under pressure.
Continue reading “Protest Safety & Rights: A Field Guide for Peaceful Resistance”
Critical Mass: Three Point Five Percent 