Participating in nonviolent protests and civic action is your legal right — and preparation makes it more effective and safer. Before you go, know your legal rights, think about your personal safety, and how to protect your digital privacy.
Know Your Rights
The First Amendment protects your right to assemble and express your views through protest. However, police and other government officials are allowed to place certain narrow restrictions on the exercise of speech rights. Make sure you’re prepared by brushing up on your rights before heading out into the streets.
Know Your Rights / Protesters’ Rights — ACLU covers
- Free Speech & Assembly
- At a Protest
- If Stopped by Police
- Immigration Rights
Know Your Rights Training — Rep. Becca Balint and ACLU of Vermont, February 2026 [YouTube]
Personal Safety at Protests
- What to wear — comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate, avoid loose scarves
- What to bring — water, snacks, ID, emergency contact written on your arm
- Use the buddy system — never go alone
- Know where the nearest exit is
- How to Protest Safely — ACLU guidance
Digital Security
Should you bring your phone? Consider leaving it behind or powering down.
- Digital Security for Protesters — Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF)
- Use Signal for secure communications
- Enable full-disk encryption on your device
Nonviolent Training & Essential Reading
History and Practice of Nonviolent Resistance with Erika Chenoweth
The Methods of Nonviolent Action by Gene Sharp
On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder