It is important to not stand out in the crowd. Regardless of your activity or how you behave, the police could identify you in photos or videos that are posted to social media or news stories. Everyone has a camera in their pocket. It should be clear that we cannot trust the police, so the last thing you want is for them to be able to identify you for any reason. You want to avoid any potential harassment or retaliation from the cops.
Warning: If you are filmed or photographed doing something that law enforcement considers “illegal”, they will try their hardest to find and arrest you. Do NOT stand out! We cannot stress this enough. Law enforcement is eager to make examples out of protesters to deter future direct action. In Salt Lake City, protesters being charged as a ‘gang’ face a life sentence.
Philadelphia Inquirer: The FBI used a Philly protester’s Etsy profile, LinkedIn, and other internet history to charge her with setting police cars ablaze:
The path took agents from Instagram, where amateur photographers also captured shots of the masked arsonist, to an Etsy shop that sold the distinctive T-shirt the woman was wearing in the video. It led investigators to her LinkedIn page, to her profile on the fashion website Poshmark, and eventually to her doorstep.
Guide: How to gear up for a protest
Wear plain, nondescript clothing. Solid, darker colors are best to blend in. Bright colorful clothing stands out. Solid black for everything is best.
Avoid logos and text! Do no wear any clothing with prominent designs or patterns.
Dress in layers to accommodate changes in weather.
Cover any identifying tattoos or piercings. Remove any jewelery from visible piercings.
Tie up your hair.
Wear a hat.
Do NOT wear contacts — in case of tear gas or pepper spray.
Do NOT wear makeup.
Do NOT wear jewelry.
Tip: It is best to be as bare-faced as possible. The chemicals in tear gas and pepper spray aren’t easy to remove from your skin. It is better to not wear makeup, because the tear gas can cling to things like mascara or lipstick. (Source)
Decide what you need and what will work for you and your level of engagement, disregard the rest. Do not bring credit cards or anything else that is not absolutely vital.
The militant demonstrator’s guide to helmets. By @blackpowderpress.
View the full guideSafety gear required for beating tear gas.
View the full guideGuides for sharing easily on social media.
Protesting Safely, from AOC / Source
Protesting? — by @bbkashe / Source