How to Safely Attend a New York Protest: Tips for Immigrants and Beyond

These are turbulent times in the United States. Transgender rights are under attack, student protesters are being illegally detained, and social media platforms are being hacked to spread propaganda. Time-out explains how New Yorkers can safely take to the streets to exercise their First Amendment rights.

Here are some tips to follow if you plan to go out and protest.

1. Find out how safe it is to protest right now

Under the current administration, the rules of the game are changing faster than most of us can keep up. In particular, Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian Columbia University graduate student, was arrested by U.S. immigration agents last week while participating in protests on campus.

Although he is a lawful permanent resident with a green card, the current administration is trying to deport him. It may be more risky for you to protest if you are not a U.S. citizen. Especially when you are part of a group of people that the current administration. So weigh your chances and decide if it's worth the risk.

2. Try to hide any identifying features

Unless you're breaking the law, try to protect your privacy. When a protest escalates, the cops will likely arrest everyone they can. They may use body camera footage to identify you and potentially interrogate you. For this reason, you'll probably want to hide any signs that could easily give you away.

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“Leave your jewelry at home, wear a mask and comfortable shoes,” said Michaela Berry, a writer who also frequently protests. “If you have tattoos or identifying marks, try to cover them up, too. You don’t want to be an easy target.”

3. Try to leave the protest before it ends.

Protests usually get worse towards the end, when tensions are already running high. If you can, try to leave the protest before it ends.

4. Stay connected with other people

If the protest escalates and—God forbid!—you get arrested, you need someone to know where you are. They can take steps to get you out or help you in any way possible. Be sure to set a meeting place and have a worst-case scenario plan, including writing a legal aid number somewhere on your body.

5. Make a plan for relaxation after the protest

It's going to be a tough few years, so brace yourself and make sure you're doing the best you can for yourself. This is a marathon, not a race, so make sure you always prioritize self-care, especially after a protest.

“Protests expose you to a variety of sensory elements. They can evoke a spectrum of emotions. Some experience heightened rage and grief, while others experience hope and momentum,” noted writer and activist Jezz Chang. “Afterward, take time to rest, reflect, and integrate. Process alone or with friends. Take a long shower or bath, eat a nutritious meal, and stretch. Treating our minds and bodies as precious will help us keep moving!”