Safer Protesting Tips

For those of you who weren't aware, yesterday March 4th marked a huge scheduled strike in Berkeley and elsewhere. Following incidences of police brutality, arrests of protesters, and other less-than-pleasant happenings over the past few months, the ASUC passed out flyers with the following tips, which might come in handy as a general reference for all of you activists out there.

Peace and Love,
Kat

The following message is from Christopher Kutz, Chair, UC Berkeley's Academic Senate.

"You have a right to make yourself heard in protest. We fully support you in this, and in the cause of public education. But, as faculty, we want more than anything for you to remain safe. Here are six things you should know to keep yourself safe while engaged in peaceful protest.

1. If a police officer tells you to do something, do it- even if you think the officer shouldn`t be asking. Arguing back, or otherwise failing to comply, may result in your immediate arrest, because it is against the law not to obey an officer's order. Take a badge number and file a later complaint instead.

2. Do not tear or cross police tape or move barricades. If the police line is compromised, police may use force to maintain the line. Try to keep a couple yards' distance from the line.

3. If you see property being vandalized or police equipment (e.g., cars) being handled by the crowd, leave the scene. The police will act. Innocent observers on the scene may be arrested by mistake.

4. If you are in the middle of a crowd and want to leave-
a. Turn away from the barricade.
b. Stay on your feet.
c. Use your hands to push your way out of the crowd.

5. If the police tell you to disperse or move back, do so immediately. Failure to do so could result in your arrest, or in the use of force against you.

6. If you choose to be arrested, consider the possible student conduct consequences. If you still want to be arrested, follow the instructions of the officer. Remember also that anything you say to a police officer can be used later against you or your companions- you have the right to remain silent and to ask for a lawyer at any point.

Be smart and stay safe!

Please do not reply directly to this message. Please direct comments to aschair@berkeley.edu."