Conduct & Safety Info

CODE OF CONDUCT For Pro-Democracy Peaceful Protests

As a participant in the Pro-Democracy Peaceful Protest, I commit to adhering to the following Code of Conduct to ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all:

• Nonviolence: I pledge to maintain a peaceful and nonviolent demeanor during the protest. I will not engage in any form of physical or verbal aggression, nor will I instigate or provoke others to do so. Violence is the quickest way to undermine our message and jeopardize our cause. 

• Respect: I commit to treating all individuals, including fellow protesters, law enforcement, and bystanders, with respect and dignity. I will refrain from using offensive language or making derogatory remarks, and I will respect the rights of others to express their opinions, even if they differ from my own. 

• Safety: I understand the importance of ensuring the safety of all participants and will follow established guidelines and protocols to maintain a secure environment. I will report potential hazards or threatening behavior to protest organizers, the Safety Monitor(s), or law enforcement immediately.

• Inclusivity: I pledge to create an inclusive atmosphere, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. I will be mindful of my own biases and assumptions, and I will strive to actively listen and learn from others. 

• Solidarity: I commit to standing in solidarity with the pro-democracy movement and its goals. I will avoid actions or statements that may undermine the message or reputation of the movement, and I will actively support my fellow protesters in their efforts to promote pro-democracy engagement in the community. 

• Compliance with Laws: I understand that I am responsible for complying with all applicable local regional and federal laws during the protest. I will cooperate with law enforcement officials and follow their instructions, unless doing so would endanger myself or others. 

•  Responsibility: I acknowledge my personal responsibility to uphold the values and goals of the pro-democracy movement. If I witness any violation of this Code of Conduct, I will report it to protest organizers, the Safety Monitor(s), or protest organizer as soon as possible.

• Action over Doom:  I choose to focus on constructive dialogue and positive, solution-oriented engagement. Our presence is rooted in unity and care for all Americans and is a peaceful response to rising authoritarianism. We are not here to sow fear, but to be seen, to be heard, and to protect democracy and human rights. We aim to inspire hope and strengthen our communities through nonpartisan solidarity and civic courage.

• Photography and Privacy: Please be mindful when taking photos or videos. Always ask for consent before photographing individuals up close, especially minors, and avoid sharing identifiable images without permission. 

Public Safety Protocols for Standouts

1. Participants may occupy public space, which includes sidewalks, the tree belt, and the green spaces of local towns.

2. Participants cannot occupy private property, such as that owned by businesses or people’s homes/yards. 

3. Participants cannot obstruct sidewalks and entrances to sidewalks. When pedestrians are going by, Participants must move aside to allow them to pass. 

4. Participants must use crosswalks to cross the road. No jay-walking. 

5. Participants cannot block handicap parking. 

6. Participants cannot stand in the breakdown lane of the street. Participants cannot stand in the street.  

7. Participants cannot obstruct the flow of traffic, including the ability for emergency vehicles to pass. 

8. Participants should park in public parking areas recommended by the organizers.

9. Participants cannot park in the parking lots of private businesses. 

10. Participants cannot park at private residences, nor block anyone's driveway with their car or their person. 

11. Participants should maintain a safe distance from street corners to allow traffic visibility when vehicles are turning on and off Main street onto side roads. 

12. Participants cannot block the signs of counter-protesters. 

13. If a Participant is being physically blocked by a counter-protester, the first course of action is to use freedom of movement to move away from that person. If they follow and try to block you again, then you seek assistance from a safety monitor, as this is a violation of your First Amendment Rights. Police will be contacted for assistance if necessary. 

14. Do not engage with counter protestors, as difficult as that is. These are peaceful events.