How to Stay Safe and Effective at Tomorrow's "No Kings" Protests

“Protest is an act of love, not one of anger.” — U.S. Rep. John Lewis

Tomorrow's the big day. People across the country are hitting the streets for the "No Kings" demonstrations on Saturday, June 14, pushing back against authoritarianism and standing up for democracy. If you've done this before, you know the drill. If it's your first time, here's what you need to know:

1. Know Your Rights

You can protest in public spaces, that's your constitutional right. Usually, you only need permits if you're blocking traffic or using amplifiers, but peaceful assembly on sidewalks and in parks is totally protected. If cops stop you, you can stay silent and ask if you're free to go. If they arrest you, don't fight it, just ask for a lawyer and keep your mouth shut.

2. Pack Smart

Bring water, snacks, and any meds you need. Your phone should be fully charged with a backup battery. Write emergency contacts on your arm with a Sharpie or keep them on a piece of paper in your pocket, phones can die or get taken. Bring cash too, since card readers might be down.

3. Dress Smart

Comfortable clothes that you can move in. Nothing flashy or with logos that could identify you later, neutral colors, and closed-toe shoes. Bring a mask (health and privacy), protective eyewear if you have it, and ditch the contacts for regular glasses. Leave the fancy stuff at home.

4. Have a Plan

Don't go alone, bring friends and stick together. Pick a meetup spot in case you get separated. Scout your surroundings, figure out where the exits are, and don't get boxed in. If things get tense or the cops start kettling people, get out of there fast but stay calm.

5. Keep It Peaceful and Look Out for Each Other

We're there to send a message, not start fights. Stay nonviolent, don't take the bait from troublemakers, and help keep everyone chill. Sometimes de-escalation is just stepping back, changing the subject, or reminding people why we're really there.

6. Document Everything

This is just as important as showing up. Take photos, shoot videos, and post them everywhere, Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter), Facebook, wherever you've got followers. Show the world what peaceful resistance looks like. Flood feeds with real footage of ordinary people standing up for democracy. The more documentation we get out there, the harder it is for anyone to twist the narrative. Just be smart about it, don't film people's faces without asking, and be aware that anything you post can be seen by everyone.

Tomorrow's going to be huge. Let's make it count - and make it home safe.

See you out there!