Top Tactical Tips and Tools for Peaceful Protesting

As November 3 approaches, many of those living in San Diego are making plans and preparing to protest around the election outcomes. 
What do you need to know in order to protest peacefully and to be able to advocate for the peaceful rights of others? We've curated this list of tips and resources to help you stay safe. 

Understand the Risks, and Take Precautions to Stay Safe

• Review this beginner's guide to protesting from Consumer Reports, particularly if this is your first time protesting, as it provides a helpful overview of what to expect and how to prepare. 
• Consider both your digital and physical safety if you plan to protest this week. Election SOS has prepared a valuable downoadable guide with critical information on:
  • Digital Safety
  • Protest Safety Planning
  • Protest Coverage Safety Tips
• Keep your digital footprint secure and safe while protesting by preparing your phone and keeping identifying features non-visible.
• Know your rights as a protester by reviewing resources from Amnesty International, Georgetown Law, and the ACLU.
• Prepare for the potential of violence. There is always a risk of violence when attending a protest, whether from fellow protesters or sometimes security forces using tactics like tear gas, chemical exposure, and more. Physicians for Human Rights share how to protect yourself and others.

Learn About and Practice Nonviolence

• Review a proven formula for protecting the vote while keeping the peace, created by Waging Nonviolence. 
• Explore over 300 tactics of nonviolent resistance, compiled by Nonviolence International and BeautifulRising, that can be undertaken in the wake of the election to help you better determine if protesting feels right for you.
• Learn how you can help to stop violence in the setting of an election, protests, and division by completing this self-activated training created by Cure Violence.
• Cultivate a culture of nonviolent peacemaking and resistance – across the U.S., teams of organizers are conducting training such as the upcoming ones led by the DC Peace Team, and you may want to join one.

Share This Information With Others

• Share this resource and encourage others considering protesting to do so peacefully. If you'd like to share tips or resources on social media, we've made it easy for you with this social media kit.