A GUIDE TO

PEACEFUL DEMONSTRATIONS

Going to a peaceful protest or march?

    • First Amendment: Protects your right to peacefully assemble and express your views.

    • You can protest in public spaces (sidewalks, parks), but permits may be required for large gatherings, marches, or amplified sound.

    • Define your purpose: Be clear on your message or demand.

    • Choose a location and time: Strategically select areas that maximize visibility and safety.

    • Get permits if required (check with your local city or police department).

    • Coordinate with others: Assign roles (organizer, legal observer, medic, etc.).

    • Do not bring weapons or anything that could be perceived as one.

    • Follow the law and do not provoke violence. Document peacefully if law enforcement or counter-protesters escalate.

    • Bring: water, snacks, ID, comfortable clothing, signs, a phone (charged), and a written emergency contact.

    • Optional: masks, goggles (for tear gas), first-aid kit, and know-your-rights cards.

    • Go with a buddy or group.

    • Share your plans with someone not attending.

    • Avoid engaging with agitators.

    • If detained, ask for a lawyer and remain silent.

Stay Civil, Stay Peaceful, Obey Laws,

and Know Your Rights!

  1. Freedom of Speech

  • You have the right to express your views, opinions, and grievances—verbally, through signs, chants, or symbolic actions.

2. Freedom of Assembly

  • You can gather in public spaces (like parks, sidewalks, and streets) peacefully for rallies, marches, and protests.

3. Right to Record

  • You may photograph and video record police and public officials in public spaces, as long as you do not interfere with their duties.

4. Right to Remain Silent

  • If stopped or questioned by police, you do not have to answer questions beyond identifying yourself in states where that’s required.

5. Freedom from Unlawful Search and Seizure

  • Police generally need a warrant or probable cause to search you or your belongings. You can say:
    👉 “I do not consent to a search.” ADDITIONAL TIP: To prevent facial or biometric intrusion on your devices, simply turn off Face ID or Fingerprint login to your devices during a protest or march, and keep passcode on.

6. Right to Legal Counsel

  • If you are detained or arrested, you have the right to a lawyer and to remain silent until your lawyer is present.

7. Right to Nonviolent Protest

  • Nonviolent protests—even those that are disruptive—are protected. But violence, vandalism, or trespassing can lead to arrest.

 FAQs

  • A Legal Observer (LO) is a neutral party that observes interactions between Law Enforcement and the public during peaceful protests and a marches. Legal Observers help to document, factually, all interactions between the public and law enforcement, and actually can help keep the peace by their presence.

    Milwaukee Turners Legal Observers: https://www.milwaukeeturners.org/legal-observing

  • Stay calm! Try to identify exit paths and only attempt to rejoin a protest or march if it’s safe to do so. Call or message people you trust and let them know you’ve been separated and are trying to get back or leaving the demonstration—if leaving, let them know when you get to your final destination.

    • Don’t engage or escalate.

    • Stay in your group and focus on your message.

    • Report any threats or violence to legal observers or police.

  • KNOW YOUR RIGHTS—You have the right to remain silent. Stay calm and do not resist. Look for any legal observers to help document your arrest, or attempt to document yourself while staying 20ft away from law enforcement. Law enforcement are there to protect the public, so do not resist, do not agitate an already tense situation; but you do have rights. You do not need to answer questions without your attorney present.

  • Yes. You can legally record public officials in public spaces, but don’t interfere with law enforcement activities. You will need to stay at least 20 ft away to record interactions with police.

Disclaimer: Developed by Eddie Phanichkul, Membership Chair, Democratic Party of Milwaukee County. This information is provided for general educational and informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and can change over time. If you need legal assistance, please consult a qualified attorney or legal organization in your area.