Many American citizens have protested for Black Lives Matter and justice for George Floyd’s murder by the Minneapolis police on May 25.
Here’s what to consider before you attend a protest:
- Go with at least one friend, preferably a group.
- Have emergency contacts written in permanent ink on skin where visible. Do not rely on your phone as it may be confiscated by police.
- Wear a face mask to protect yourself against COVID-19.
- Wear long pants or jeans to protect your legs in case you fall or get trampled.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toed shoes in case you get stepped on or need to run.
- Cover yourself with as much clothing as possible to reduce harm from rubber bullets shot by the police.
- Wear sunglasses to protect against tear gas.
- Don’t wear contacts; tear gas can get trapped underneath the contact lens.
- Don’t wear makeup because tear gas can stick to it.
- Don’t wear items that can be easily grabbed, such as any jewelry.
- Bring a form of ID and cash. Leave unnecessary and expensive items at home.
- Bring snacks and water if you plan on being there for a while.
- Bring a water bottle filled with a couple spoonfuls of baking soda to counteract tear gas in the eyes.
- Pack a first aid kit in case you get hurt.
- Make sure a reliable person can pick you up from the protest. Don’t rely on public transportation or rideshare services in case you need to make a fast exit. Many rideshare services won’t pick up people from major protests
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