Protests and Personal Safety

Throughout history, protests have been used as a catalyst for political and social change. They range from peaceful marches and demonstrations to civil disobedience. When protests turn violent, people are sometimes harmed simply by being at the wrong place at the wrong time.

There are many reasons why people gather to protest. These reasons reflect diverse concerns and grievances within a society. Festering frustrations, perceived injustice, oppression, and anger are among the emotions that often motivate people to organize and voice their concerns. A controversial incident often ignites protests. This can set the stage for violent behavior.

Peaceful protests can quickly morph into full-blown riots where violent acts are directed toward people and property. Those who initially protested peacefully find themselves participating in violent behavior. This behavior has been described as spontaneous contagion. Agitators inside a group or counter protesters seem to fuel violence even further.

Participants who join in violent protests tend to drop their identity and responsibility and quickly adopt a shared or collective sense of group identity. Group dynamics can create a sense of anonymity and diffuse personal responsibility resulting in violent behavior.?

Technology makes it easier to advance communication that can fuel the behavior of protestors. Often, influential leaders use media outlets and social media platforms as a force multiplier to promote violence. This means that a riot on the west coast may influence the behavior of people on the east coast in a relatively short amount of time.

Due to the unpredictable nature of protests, you should be mindful of how to protect yourself during such demonstrations. Below are some things you can do in preparation to stay safe during protests or riots.?

·????? Perhaps the best way to stay safe from protests/riots is to stay clear from them. Stay informed by following news stories covering events within the country you live or plan to visit.

·????? If you are traveling in the general direction of an active protest/riot, do your best to stay clear by using alternative routes.

·????? Visualize an escape plan. Find a quiet place and imagine the strategies you might use if you found yourself in the midst of chaotic behavior stemming from an unruly crowd.

·????? Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Look for exits and visualize an exit plan.

·????? If you find yourself in the midst of an angry mob, remain calm and non-confrontational.

·????? If you encounter law enforcement personnel comply with their directives promptly and calmly.

·????? If you get caught up in a stampede, move with the flow of people toward the perimeter diagonally.

·????? If you are pushed to the ground, curl into a fetal position on your left side and protect your head. Get up as soon as you safely can.

There are many reasons crowds gather to protest. Remember, a peaceful protest can quickly turn violent. Stay informed about incidents that might spark civil unrest. Do your best to stay clear of such activities and if you find yourself caught up in a violent crowd, use these strategies to get away quickly and safely.

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