A librarian’s job, above all else, is to give information. As such, here’s a checklist of things to bring and not bring to a protest, as well as some quick tips. Please note that not all of these may be possible or reasonable for your situation, so use your best judgement.
DO BRING:
A plain, water-resistant, layered outfit
Avoid logos or decorations, especially identifying ones (school slogans, local clubs, etc)
Cover all tattoos, scars, and identifying body marks
Avoid pants that you’d have to pull up or adjust when running, and roll up any baggy hems.
Good running shoes or boots
Nitrate or knit is fine, but insulated gloves can be useful for clearing debris such as broken glass or gas canisters. (Note: gas canisters are VERY HOT. Do not attempt to hold or carry one!)
Swimmer’s goggles or safety goggles are fine. Both protect against gas and debris.
If possible, avoid reusable masks with distinct patterns.
Falling or being tackled is very possible. Avoid scrapes!
A hood is also fine. Both obscure the face and protect against debris.
Granola bars and trail mix are ideal. Energy on the go!
Avoid using credit/debit as much as possible. Don’t leave a money trail!
First aid (ointment/bandages/alcohol wipes)
Loose fabrics/scarf/washcloth
These are VERY versatile! They can cover the face, wipe surfaces, staunch bleeding and clean out injuries, and can be dipped in vinegar or water to help breathe through smoke or gas. Likewise, a loose, billowing fabric can quickly tell you the wind direction, and so which way to run away from traveling clouds of smoke or gas.
Extra clothes (kept in a ziplock/plastic bag)
Useful for if you’re stuck overnight! Also, if you get hit with chemicals (tear gas, pepper spray, corrosives), being able to swap to unsprayed clothes will save you a world of hurt.
Water mixed w/ antacids (Tums) or baking soda
Both milk and the above mixes are ideal for pouring into the eyes of someone hit with pepper spray. (Think of it like drinking milk after eating spicy food.) A spray bottle or a water bottle with a squirt-top are ideal.
Keeping track of time is vital, even if your phone is dead or off.
Baggie with ID, keys, cash, and any medical info or supplies.
Do you have your inhaler? Are you epileptic? Do you need a daily medication? Write those down and keep them with you.
Notepad and pen, or camera
Document anything amiss that you see!
Keep track of where you are, exit routes, and a distinct place to meet up if you lose track of your friends or group.
Again, a rag soaked in vinegar can be breathed through to help get away from tear gas.
UNLESS it is in Airplane mode, with Face ID and Location turned off! Your phone is very literally a data tracking device. If you can afford to leave it home, do so.
Necklaces, earrings, and piercings can be easily caught up, grabbed, or damaged in crowds or during conflict.
Many anti-protest chemicals can bind to and react poorly with makeup. Washing out your eyes is much easier if they aren’t surrounded in waterproof mascara.
See above. Glasses are better protection against debris.
See above. If you can, clean yourself with PH-based soap before heading out.
Do not bring anything that can seriously harm you if you fall and it shatters!
The last thing you want, if arrested, is to look like you were planning violence. This includes scissors and small pocketknives!
Don’t give police any more reason than they need to hold you in custody. Protesting is legal, weed often isn’t.
Write the number of your lawyer or an emergency contact on your arm before leaving.
GO WITH A FRIEND. Talk with people in your area and find someone you know to pair up with, then keep an eye on each other. If you’re at a protest without a buddy, don’t be afraid to ask others around you if they want to pair up.
Clearly communicate with your friends and roommates about what you’re doing, where you’re at, what time you’re leaving, and what time you expect to be back. Make sure you set up a distinctly visual, safe location as a meet-up point if you get separated from the group, lost, or need a pick-up.
If possible, have a third party who’s not attending the protest, but can act as an emergency contact or a ride.
Document and be alert of people trying to incite violence. DO NOT be pulled into it, yourself! No veteran protest organizer wants violence, but there are MANY random people who will goad you into it at the cost of your safety.
If you feel unsafe or overwhelmed, LEAVE. Do not feel like you have to stay there 24/7 to prove your point. You’re human. Take breaks, step back, restock supplies, go home and rest and come back later.
Prepare for long hours of standing and bad weather. If you have joint pain, bring a brace. Bring something like a jacket to sit on when you can. Put clear packing tape over cardboard signs to insulate them from the rain.
Keep in touch with your buddy and the protest organizer often. Plans can change rapidly.
Check in on the health of those around you. Is someone panicking and needs to be pulled aside to breathe? Is someone hurt? Is there a bathroom around for someone to use?
Research the protest’s organizers beforehand. Is it a veteran grassroots group with previous experience and a history of nonviolence? Or are they giving off red flags towards white supremacy in a protest disguise?
Have a back-up plan in case you’re arrested or injured. Will someone feed your pets and look after your kids if you need to be out for more than a day?
Above all else, stay safe, stay in touch, and stay sharp! The best gear to have is a cool head, a history of research, and a circle of supportive allies.
kianamaiart
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