How Nonprofits Can Safely and Legally Organize a Protest

Protests have long been a powerful tool for social change, allowing nonprofits to advocate for their causes and amplify their voices. However, organizing a protest requires careful planning to ensure it remains both effective and compliant with legal regulations. Here’s a guide to help nonprofit organizations safely and legally organize a protest.

1. Understand the Legal Framework

Before planning a protest, it’s crucial to understand federal, state, and local laws that govern public demonstrations. While the First Amendment protects the right to peaceful assembly, certain restrictions may apply depending on the location and nature of the event.

Permits: Some cities require permits for protests held in public spaces, especially if they involve street closures, amplified sound, or large gatherings. Check with local authorities for specific requirements.
Time, Place, and Manner Restrictions: Governments can enforce rules regarding when and where protests can take place. For example, protests near courthouses or government buildings may have specific restrictions.
Private Property Considerations: If a protest is planned on private property, organizers must obtain permission from the property owner.
Local Ordinances: Review any local noise regulations, curfews, or emergency orders that may impact the protest.
Awareness of Uneven Legal Application: Legal frameworks are not always applied consistently, and laws may be interpreted or enforced differently depending on circumstances. Organizers should stay informed about potential shifts in law enforcement approaches and be prepared for varying levels of police response.
Have Legal Support Ready: An organization should have bail money set aside and lawyers lined up before the protest in case participants are arrested. Providing participants with contact information for legal aid services is also advisable.

2. Establish Clear Goals and Messaging

Successful protests have a clear purpose and message. Define what your nonprofit hopes to achieve, whether it’s raising awareness, influencing policy, or mobilizing supporters.

Develop Key Messaging: Keep messages concise and focused to ensure participants and media understand the protest’s objectives.
Create Signage and Materials: Well-designed banners, posters, and flyers help communicate your message visually and make a strong impact.
Prepare Spokespeople: Identify individuals who can articulate the cause to the media and public.

3. Ensure Safety and Security

Safety should be a top priority to protect both participants and the public.

Recruit Volunteer Marshals: Marshals help maintain order and can assist in de-escalating tensions if necessary.
Have a Comprehensive Contingency Plan: Be prepared for emergencies, including individual medical issues, group health crises, extreme weather conditions, counter-protesters, and unexpected law enforcement actions.
Know Your Rights: Educate participants about their rights, including the right to film in public spaces and the importance of remaining peaceful.
Coordinate with Authorities: While not always necessary, notifying local law enforcement of protest plans can help ensure a smooth and peaceful event.

4. Promote the Protest Responsibly

To maximize attendance and engagement, nonprofits should leverage multiple communication channels.

Social Media Campaigns: Use hashtags, event pages, and live streams to spread awareness and encourage participation.
Email and Newsletters: Inform supporters about the protest’s purpose, time, and location.
Press Outreach: Issue a press release and invite journalists to cover the event.

Be mindful of language used in promotions to ensure the event is framed as a peaceful and legal demonstration.

5. Document and Follow Up

Capturing the protest’s impact is essential for ongoing advocacy efforts.

Take Photos and Videos: Share visuals on social media and with the press to extend the event’s reach.
Collect Participant Information: Engage attendees by encouraging them to sign up for future advocacy efforts.
Follow Up with Decision-Makers: Send letters or petitions to government officials summarizing the protest’s demands.
Debrief and Reflect: Evaluate what went well and what could be improved for future actions.