Your Rights as a Protestor
"Peaceful resistance is not a crime; it is the most profound speech of a free people. But you must know the boundaries the state has set—so you can stand exactly on them."
— Paradise Folk School principle, from Article X
Know Your Rights: Video Walkthrough
Watch this short video series before you protest. It walks through your rights as a protestor, how to interact with police, and what to do if you're arrested — neutral, practical, and to the point.
A resource from beyond our school: This video was not created by Paradise Folk School, but we offer it as a helpful companion. Use it alongside our written guide. Knowing your rights is how we put neighbor-love into practice.
We confront corruption and oppression with sit-ins, boycotts, and marches. Knowing your rights protects you, your fellow builders, and the movement.
General Rights (Applies everywhere in the U.S.)
Right to Assemble Peacefully
The First Amendment protects gatherings in "traditional public forums" (streets, sidewalks, parks). You can assemble without a permit in many cases, but large marches may require one.
Important: Even if a permit is required, police cannot unreasonably deny it based on the content of your message.
Right to Free Speech
You can hold signs, chant, and express political views.
The government can impose reasonable "time, place, and manner" restrictions, but cannot silence you because they disagree with your message.
Right to Record
You have the right to photograph or video police performing their duties in public, as long as you don't interfere.
Police cannot confiscate or demand to view your footage without a warrant.
Where You Can Protest
On Public Property
Sidewalks, parks, and public squares are your forum. You don't need a permit for a small group that doesn't block traffic.
If you're planning a large rally or a march that will close streets, you usually need a permit from the city. Apply early; they can't deny you based on politics.
On Private Property
The owner can set rules; you can be arrested for trespassing if you refuse to leave.
Note: We often choose to engage in civil disobedience and accept the consequences, but do so knowingly.
If You're Stopped or Arrested
Stay calm and know your rights:
- Stay calm. Don't run.
- Ask if you're free to go. If the officer says yes, walk away.
- If you're detained, say clearly: "I choose to remain silent. I want to speak to a lawyer."
- Don't consent to a search of your person or belongings.
- Police can pat you down if they suspect you have a weapon, but they need probable cause to search beyond that.
- You don't have to unlock your phone, but never physically resist an officer.
Never physically resist.
Even if your rights are being violated, do not physically resist an officer. Assert your rights verbally, comply with orders, and address violations later through legal channels.
What to Do If You Feel Your Rights Have Been Violated
Document Everything
Write down everything you remember as soon as possible:
- Badge numbers
- Patrol car numbers
- Witness contacts
Photograph Injuries
Take photos of any injuries as soon as possible. Date and time-stamp them if you can.
Contact Legal Support
Contact the local National Lawyers Guild (NLG) chapter or a civil rights attorney.
Official Resources
Charter Connection
This guide directly supports Article X—Peaceful Resistance and Prophetic Truth-Telling. Your body on the line is a form of preaching, and we protect that sermon with legal knowledge.
When we protest, we don't merely speak truth to power. We embody it.
The "Know Your Rights" Video Series
Here are the direct links to all the practical videos covering your rights as a protestor:
Watch all videos in order on our playlist:
View Full Playlist