Protesting with Purpose: Safety Tips for Activists

Safely Making a Difference, Fighting for What’s Right

We are in the middle of very significant and important current events. What is happening today is historic and is making an impact on major social issues. As an English school offering online courses, English for Internationals stands by the Black Lives Matter movement, advocating for justice; healing; and further education on impactful, underrepresented social issues. We commend and applaud those who support this cause. To help make the most of your efforts, we’d like to point out protesting safety tips and also other ways you can support this cause.

Our hearts are heavy with sadness over the recent deaths of George Floyd, Ahmad Arbery and frankly every other name on the list of people whose lives have been affected by hatred and oppression since the beginning of time. We believe everyone matters. We believe decisions matter. We believe education matters… Continued

READ MORE: English for Internationals’ Thoughts on Current Events

Tips on Protesting Safely

While English for Internationals supports the Black Lives Matter movement, we urge you to use discretion when choosing whether to protest. Please do your research, understanding the risks involved and how to stay safe while speaking up.

Supplies

Many recommend carrying a backpack. Some supplies to pack include water, snacks, hand sanitizer, first aid supplies, and other accessories such as earplugs.

Outfit

It’s important to dress appropriately when going out to protests. While we are still in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, wearing a face mask is essential. Bring extra masks in case something were to happen to the one you’re wearing. Wear comfortable shoes and consider wearing a hat if it’s hot and sunny. In some instances, goggles may be helpful to stay safe if you were to come in contact with tear gas. We suggest packing some extra clothes just in case.

Essentials

Don’t forget to bring the essentials, but also be mindful of how much you bring. Many suggest bringing your ID, cash (instead of card), your phone (with touch ID and face recognition disabled), and medications you may be required to take on a schedule. Also, consider wearing a medical ID bracelet if you have conditions that medics would need to know about; also, consider bringing a list of emergency contacts in the case that something could happen to you.

There is SO much to cover on this topic, including risks and best practices. Thankfully, Wired.com has compiled a comprehensive and incredibly resourceful guide on this topic.

READ MORE on Wired.com

Other Ways to Support the Cause

Donate

It’s possible and constructive to contribute in ways other than protesting. You can donate your time by volunteering or donate your money to organizations such as NAACP that make a difference—if you have the resources to help. Time.com featured a great article on how to contribute, which we encourage you to read.

READ MORE on Time.com

Create

Art is beautiful and moving. We connect to art emotionally and on a human level. Don’t underestimate the power of art, whether visual or performative. If you have an artistic side, we encourage you to use that talent to create something that can make a difference and can speak to others on this issue.

Communicate

It is encouraged to have progressive and productive conversations with your friends and loved ones about this issue with a purpose to further normalize the Black Lives Matter message. If you feel led to, post on social media and write to public officials about this topic.

Listen

Above all, it’s important to listen and educate ourselves during this time, especially if we have not been in an underprivileged position before. Learn from those who have experience, keeping an open mind to listen and gain insight from others.

About English for Internationals

English for Internationals is an English school in Roswell, Georgia, that now offers online English courses anyone on the planet can enroll in! Be a part of a community, get a personalized education, and transform your future at English for Internationals. If you’re interested in learning more, contact us today at 770-766-8892 or by filling out the contact form on our website. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates!