How to Protest Safely in 'Trump's America' — Part 1

Essential advice to help you prepare for protest.

This guide has been revised in response to federal military deployments and expanded surveillance powers. My recommended guide is now available here: An Updated Guide to Staying Safe at 14 June 'No Kings' Protests

Friends,

The United States is swiftly sliding into authoritarianism. Education is being gutted, dissent is being punished, and surveillance is expanding. Immigrants are being detained for speaking out. Libraries, research, public dialogue — all under attack.

You’ve got every reason to be furious. Every reason to want to make your voice heard. But if you’re going to protest, you need to do it with your eyes open. You should not walk into this — or any future — protest thinking it’s just another march. It’s not. The reality is: peaceful protest is no longer risk-free. Not in a country where democratic rights are being actively dismantled. Not under a regime that punishes defiance and rewards cruelty.

That’s why I’ve written this guide — to help you prepare, protect yourself, and …