Empowering your voice, protecting your freedom

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Knowing your rights is the first step to a safer, more legal, and more impactful participation in our movement. Understand your constitutional protections and contribute to a fairer system, always staying within the bounds of the law. Join us as we advocate for justice.

Peaceful assembly and free speech

Your voice matters. You have the constitutional right to gather peacefully in public spaces, march, hold signs, and read manifestos, as long as you remain nonviolent and within legal areas. Exercise your right to speak, chant, or distribute educational materials, but remember to avoid speech that could be considered threats, harassment, or incitement to violence.

Documenting and observing

Protect your truth by documenting events. You may record public officials in public spaces for documentation or social media. This right is crucial for transparency. However, please respect privacy by not recording private property or individuals who request not to be filmed. Law enforcement may monitor protests, but you are not required to answer questions about your opinions or associations. Always stay calm, polite, and non-confrontational.

Your legal safeguards

If questioned or detained, remember your legal safeguards. You cannot be arrested without a legal reason. Calmly ask, “Am I free to leave?” and assert your right to remain silent and request a lawyer. You also have the right to leave a protest or caravan at any time and seek medical care if needed. Authorities cannot treat you differently based on race, gender, religion, political views, or participation in a lawful protest. If detained or arrested, do not sign any documents without legal advice.

Organizing and caravanning safely

You may organize, join, and march in groups. Coordinators should communicate routes, schedules, and safety rules clearly. Drivers may participate in peaceful convoys, displaying banners and flags, but must always obey traffic laws, avoid blocking other vehicles, and follow convoy leader instructions. Assemble responsibly to maximize your impact.

Tips for exercising your rights safely

To ensure your safety and effectiveness: Carry ID and emergency contact info. Have a buddy system. Keep a charged phone with local emergency numbers. Stay calm and polite, even if confronted. Know the location of marshals, first aid, and exits. By staying informed and prepared, you can actively participate while remaining within the boundaries of the law. Join the movement at Americans for Justice.