If you choose to join a protest, there are a few steps you should consider to help prioritize your safety, reduce your exposure to COVID-19 and minimize the spread. The harm-reduction tips below were adapted and compiled from lists created by NAACP at UT Austin, Frontline Medics and Students for Sensible Drug Policy.
Before Protesting
- Consider others is in your household and their health. Do not risk increasing their exposure, especially if they are at higher risk for COVID-19 complications.
- Know that there are other ways to practice anti-racist activism besides attending rallies and marches. This may include educating yourself and the people around you, donating to social justice organizations and/or signing petitions.
- If you chose to attend in-person, ask a friend to join you, and use the buddy system.
- Let someone you trust know where you are going.
- Discuss and develop a safety plan with your buddy in case you are separated.
- Fully charge your phone, and consider bringing an extra battery pack and charger.
- Consider bringing the following items in a small bag or backpack:
- First aid kit
- Hand sanitizer
- Hat to protect from the sun and help cover your face
- Mask or cloth covering that covers both your nose and mouth
- Snacks
- Sunglasses
- Tissues
- Water
- Do:
- Dress in long sleeves and pants to protect your skin from sun damage and potential exposure to chemical agents.
- Understand your rights if you are stopped by the police.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
- Wear your hair up and out of your face.
- Write two emergency contacts with telephone numbers directly onto your hand or arm with permanent marker in case you are arrested.
- Do Not:
- Bring cannabis or cannabis products.
- Wear contact lenses or eye makeup.
- Wear jewelry.
- Take care of yourself physically and mentally.
- Nourish your body with the food you have available to you, stay hydrated and get enough sleep.
- Reach out to your support system and practice self-care.
While Protesting
- Cover your cough and sneeze into your elbow.
- Do not share images of protesters on social media to protect their identities.
- Document injuries caused by police with photos and note the time and location.
- Don't shake hands, hug, share drinks or engage in long face-to-face conversations.
- Enable a passcode on your phone.
- Identify safe ways to exit in case of escalated violence.
- If your eyes exposed to pepper spray or tear gas:
- Do not rub them; blinking and rinsing are the most effective.
- Tilt head sideways and rinse each eye with water.
- Stay at least 6 feet apart from others to maintain physical distancing.
- Stay focused and aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Stay hydrated by frequently drinking water.
- Turn off Face ID and Touch ID.
- Wear a mask or face covering and avoid touching your face.
After Protesting
- Change your clothes as soon as possible, shower and disinfect your belongings.
- Consider a two week self-isolation. It is possible to transmit COVID-19 without showing any symptoms.
- Consider getting tested for COVID-19. If you have symptoms, call your health care provider.
- Continue to take care of yourself, mentally, physically and emotionally.
- Do not share any photos of protesters on social media.