Black Lives Matter Resource Guide: Resources for Protesters

• Tell a friend or family member who will not be there when and where you are going. Give them a time to check in on you if they have not heard from you.
• Bring water and bring extra, for yourself and anyone who may need it. Hydration, sure, but it's also good for tear gas.
• Bring snacks, perhaps something with electrolytes or just an energy booster. Bring extra if you can for someone in need.
• Bring sunscreen.
• Bring a first aid kit for yourself or for others in need.
• Consider writing an emergency contact on your body in permanent marker. You may lose your phone, perhaps you faint, or something else happens. These are dangerous times. Be prepared.
• Wear a mask. Any and all PPE are strongly recommended.
• Bring hand sanitizer. Gloves might not be a bad idea for a variety of reasons. 
• Keep social distance if possible. If not, consider staying to the sides or fringes of the march or protest.
• Plan multiple routes to arrive and leave the protest. The situation can change as police close down and reroute the flow of traffic and protestors.
• Do NOT go alone. Travel with a group, try not to get separated, and establish meeting locations both at and away from the protest if separated.
• Plan an exit strategy. Things can get dangerous. Be aware of your surroundings, stay in the present moment, and try to imagine your safest immediate action should you need to vacate an area quickly.
• Look for the helpers, and be one yourself. Check on strangers who seem distressed, fatigued, perhaps are winded or hurt.
• Be kind to each other. A protest is led by example, and energy is contagious. Keep and send out positive vibes toward your fellow protestors.
• Street Medics/Nurses should wear scrubs, colorful clothing, or signage that identifies you as such. Same goes for those with any kind of supplies.

For a more thorough guide, we recommend reading the Advice for a New Protester guide that a Philadelphia resident and activist with the Earth Quaker Action Team was willing to share with us.

See the Emergency Supplies box at the bottom of the page for more emergency preparedness.

Before attending any protests, we strongly suggest that you know your rights and consider these tips to protect your digital privacy.

What to do if you are arrested at a Philly protest, including information from Professor Rachel Lopez.

Finally, check out Philly Protest for information about recently posted and ongoing protests in and around Philadelphia.