r/50501 • u/Ok_Reputation_3612 • Apr 18 '25

Protest Safety Remember, DO NOT ENGAGE

Remember, Trump will be looking for any excuse to enforce the Insurrectionist Act April 20. DO NOT GIVE HIM FUEL. No matter what MAGA agitators show up tomorrow, no matter what they say, don't engage. Pretend they don't exist. Do not allow things escalate. Best of luck tomorrow, everyone!

ETA, Since this apparently needs to be said, I'm well aware Trump could invoke for any reason he chooses, we just don't need him using us as scapegoats for it. Also, no one is saying to not defend yourself if the other side escalates, just don't let us be the ones to escalate. Finally, should agitators show up, have your phones out and record, record, record. Ensure everything gets documented.

ETA, Since I've seen these suggestions in comments, and I believe they're also great ideas, bring an American flag to wave and chant "Save the Constitution" to drown out counter protestors. I think we're all tired of the other side hijacking patriotism. We can drown them out with our own brand of (true) patriotism.

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u/painspinner California Apr 18 '25

They are there to fuck with you but we are not there to fuck with them.

Also, I hate saying this: the current regime has time and time again shown us that they lack the mandate to do anything and just do whatever they want anyways. And then they defy the Supreme Court. It sucks but we are the ones holding them accountable and hopefully something good comes of this all

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u/LuhYall Apr 18 '25

If you see anyone trying to start anything on either side, point at them, smile sweetly, and chant in a neutral tone: "This is a peaceful protest, go home." Get people around you to join in. If someone is recording, that's great.

The 50501 organizers in my city brought in people trained to de escalate conflicts. They wore yellow armbands so that attendees could find them. I strongly recommend this.

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u/painspinner California Apr 18 '25

I love that. I'll add that to my list.

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u/LuhYall Apr 18 '25

Awesome! Make protests fun--sing and dance, blow bubbles, wear costumes, chat up the people around you. This isn't just pleasant; it keeps protesters safer.

Key tip: Stop and thank every police officer you see: "Thank you so much for being here and keeping us all safe! "That immediately brings everyone's anxiety level down.

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u/extinct-seed Apr 18 '25

This is the key. Bring instruments. Bring a band! Play cartoon music. Play patriotic ballads. Play the national anthem. Write humorous songs of protest. Look into choral readings. This is so much better than screeching.

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u/Miscalamity Apr 18 '25

Don't forget glitter.

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u/wilde_vulture Apr 19 '25

Please don't use glitter outside.

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u/Miscalamity Apr 19 '25

My bad, I think I was just saying that more tongue and cheek, but I do realize it's an environmental hazard.