Promote Peace

Before the Protest: DO Set the Tone

• Encourage a Peaceful Message – Make nonviolence clear which emphasizes unity and peace.
• Organize Trained De-Escalators – Have people in the crowd trained to calm tensions and prevent conflicts.
• Choose a Peaceful Location & Route – Avoid areas prone to confrontation, like heavily policed zones or opposition group gatherings.

During the Protest – DO

• Lead by Example – Stay calm, follow the law, and encourage others to do the same.
• Diffuse Tension Early – If someone gets agitated, use calming words and body language to de-escalate.
• Encourage Nonviolent Responses to Aggression – If counter-protesters provoke, chant louder but don’t engage with anger.
• Use Peaceful Symbols – Carry flowers, or use art/music to create a peaceful atmosphere. BREAKING OUT IN SONG can actually help.
• Have Clear Protest Guidelines – If organizing, remind people of peaceful protest rules before and during the event.

🔥 If Things Get Heated

• Redirect Attention – Shift focus back to your cause instead of engaging with hecklers.
• Use Trained De-Escalators – Some protests have people designated to calm tensions—let them step in.
• Call for Help if Needed – If someone gets violent, alert protest organizers or law enforcement if safe to do so.
• Exit if Necessary – If a situation feels unsafe, it’s okay to walk away and regroup.

De-Escalation

DO Stay Aware – Watch for changes in the crowd’s mood, police movements, and potential dangers.

DO Stay Focused on Your Message – Don’t get distracted by hecklers or aggressive individuals.

DO Keep Your Cool – Take deep breaths and respond calmly instead of reacting emotionally.

DO Use Non-Threatening Body Language – Keep hands open, relaxed posture, and avoid sudden movements.

DO Encourage Others to Stay Peaceful – If someone in your group gets heated, remind them to remain nonviolent.

DO Keep a Safe Distance – If someone seems aggressive, maintain physical space to avoid physical confrontations.

DON”T Argue or Shout Back – Engaging in a shouting match won’t change minds and can fuel tension.

DON’T Insult or Taunt – Even if provoked, insults can make things worse.

DON’T Physically Engage – Pushing, grabbing, or touching someone can lead to legal trouble or violence.

DON’T Take the Bait – Some counter-protesters want to incite violence. Stay disciplined.

Become your own Reporter

Do take pictures and videos uplifting the message and post on socials. We can no longer rely on mainstream media to cover protests. Hopefully the event remains peaceful, but if video/photo of unjust situtations are captured, it may be important for the public to see that too. You can also send your footage/photos to local media. For Reno, Our Town Reno/Big Little Streets is a great way to possibly amplify what you’ve captured – usnico@gmail.com.

Safety

DO Plan Ahead – Know the protest route, exits, and meeting points.

DO Dress Smart – Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes and sturdy shoes. Avoid identifiable clothing if anonymity is a concern.

DO bring Essentials – Pack water, snacks, first aid, and ID. (know where closest bathroom is).

DO Write Down Emergency Contacts – Keeping it in a back pocket, include a lawyer’s number in case of arrest.

Don’t Rely on Your Phone – Have a backup plan in case of signal blocks or battery loss.

DO have a Protest Buddy – There’s safety in numbers; stay with trusted people.

DO Record Events – If conflict arises, video recording can help document abuses or incidents. Document Everything – If tension rises, calmly record interactions but avoid provoking anyone.

DO Secure Your Phone or leave it at home

DO Follow Health Precautions – Wear a mask if necessary, and bring hand sanitizer.

DO Conceal Identity if you are worried about being a target. If people ask to take your photo, it’s ok to say no. But know they are allowed to in public places. Wear a mask / glasses if you want to hid your identity. We want you there, but not if you have serious concerns for your safety. You can help in other ways.

DON’T Engage with Counter Protesters if you see folks being rude, or trying to start a fight. Don’t give in. Some people go to counter-protest so they can start fights so they can then blame the protesters for being violent. Stand above it.

DON’T Confront Law Enforcement Aggressively – Stay calm and assert your rights without escalating tensions. And if Arrested:

• Stay Calm
• Do not lie or give false documents.
• Keep your hands where the officer can see them at all times