ACLU's Guide to Safe, Peaceful Protesting for June 14 'No Kings Day'
- Nick S.
- Jun 13
- 1 min read
Plus, Heather Cox Richardson explains WHY Americans CAN and SHOULD protest
You have the right to protest on all public property PEACEFULLY. You must receive permission from property owners to protest on private property.
You may protest on public streets if you do not interfere with traffic. Obstructing traffic can be probable cause for law enforcement to arrest you. Sidewalks are generally safe spaces, but you CANNOT obstruct access to sidewalks.
You CANNOT block access to public buildings (e.g., if someone wants to enter the Capitol, you must allow access).
If law enforcement orders you to disperse, they must allow a reasonable time to do so and provide you with clear instructions on how to do so.
Keep in mind, counterprotesters have a right to be there as well. Best advice: Don’t engage with counterprotesters.
You have the right to photograph and videotape on public property during protests. However, some states have regulations against audio recordings, which in most cases would include video.
Keep in mind that someone may also be videotaping and/or photographing YOU.
Law enforcement cannot seize your photographs or videos without a search warrant.
Always remain calm and non-confrontational. Do not resist law enforcement.
If you are arrested, you have the right to ask why and the right to speak to an attorney. You also have the right to ask for the officer’s name and badge number.
Generally, you can say what you want during a peaceful protest. However, you CANNOT make inflammatory comments that incite violence or encourage illegal acts (eg. “burn it down”).
Minors are allowed to peacefully protest.
For additional information, go to ACLU Iowa: aclu-iowa.org
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