How to Stage A Peaceful Protest

It's our right as Americans to protest. Whether it's your classic sit-in, walk-out or march, here are a few tips so that your protest is both effective and peaceful.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Make sure the cause you are protesting is worth the effort. There is a big difference between fighting for a just cause and simply being a rabble-rouser.

2. Know your limits as well as your rights. Be responsible and do your research. Different communities and cities have different standards as to what is legal when protesting. You may have to obtain a "permit to protest" from your local city hall. If so, be sure to bring it with you on Demonstration Day.

3. Define your message. Like advertising, your message must be succinct and easy to read & understand, e.g. "No Blood For Oil" or "Hell No, We Won't Go!" If it's too complicated, you'll lose your audience.

4. Release a well-written press release. This is your message and presentation is just as important as content. Neatly typed, spell-checked with facts is key. Then release it to the proper media outlets.
   
   Also, have a website -- this not only "legitimizes" your cause, but provides a source of information long after your physical protest has ended.

5. If possible, launch your protest around a significant date. If it's about a company's policy, launch the protest when there is a shareholder's meeting scheduled. Basically, time your event for maximum impact.

6. Make sure everyone in your protest agrees with the cause as well as the means to accomplish the protest. It only takes a few bad apples to hide in your otherwise peaceful protest and turn it into a riot. You can prevent this "hijacking" if everyone is on board with a peaceful plan.

7. Contact the police. Yes, call the police! Ironically, a peaceful protest is helped with police assistance. In Los Angles, for example, the police want to be a part of the demonstration. In fact, a representative will speak with you about your goals. If you want to be arrested, they will satisfy your request. You will have the peaceful protest you want (complete with pictures from the media chronicling the arrests) and the police will be ready to protect your right to protest.

8. Follow through with your plan and feel good that you have taken part in a tradition provided under our Constitution!

[Crabcakes]

on 3/3/2009 EXCELLENT tips! Well written and succint! RRR 5* ALL protests should be peaceful!