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Your Fundamental Rights
Traditional Public Forums: You have the strongest rights in streets, sidewalks, and parks
Government Property: You can speak on plazas in front of government buildings (if not blocking access)
Photography Rights: You can photograph anything in plain view in public spaces, including police
Equal Treatment: Police must treat protesters and counterprotesters equally
📋
Organizing a Protest
Do I Need a Permit?
NO permit needed for marching on streets/sidewalks (if not obstructing traffic)
Permit required for blocking traffic, large rallies with amplified sound, or events over certain size in parks
Police can't use permit procedures to prevent protests responding to breaking news
Permits cannot be denied because the event is controversial
If Your Rights Are Violated
Write down everything: badge numbers, patrol car numbers, agency
Get witness contact information
Take photographs of any injuries
File written complaint with internal affairs or civilian complaint board
📢
Attending a Protest
If Police Issue a Dispersal Order
Last Resort: Police can only break up gatherings if there's clear and present danger
Reasonable Opportunity: You must be given sufficient time and a clear exit path
Clear Notice: You must receive detailed notice including time limits and consequences
Exit Route: Police must provide an unobstructed path to leave
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Taking Photos & Video
You can photograph anything in plain view in public spaces, including federal buildings and police
Police cannot confiscate or view your photos/video without a warrant
Police cannot delete your data under any circumstances
Audio recording may be subject to state wiretapping laws (visual recording is fully protected)
If Stopped While Photographing
Remain calm and never physically resist
Ask if you are free to leave - if yes, calmly walk away
If detained, ask what crime you're suspected of
Remind officer that photography is protected by First Amendment
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If Stopped by Police
Stay calm and keep hands visible
Don't argue, resist, or obstruct - even if you believe rights are violated
Ask if you are free to leave - if yes, calmly walk away
If arrested, ask why and request a lawyer immediately
Say you wish to remain silent - don't sign anything without a lawyer
You have the right to make a local phone call
Never consent to searches (police may pat down for weapons or search after arrest)
🚨 Emergency & Legal Contacts
Keep these numbers handy and know your local legal support resources
ACLU:
Know Your Rights
Know Your Rights
National Lawyers Guild:
Legal Observers
Legal Observers
Local Legal Aid:
Know your local resources
Know your local resources