It’s always good to know your rights before going to a protest to avoid any possible misunderstanding. The government can’t stop you from peacefully protesting, but it can restrict the time, place, and manner of the protest. However, the content itself can never be a reason to block the protest.

Remember that on private property, though, nobody has a right to assemble. Police can move you off the property and keep you from demonstrating there.

Emerson Sykes, a staff attorney with the ACLU’s Speech, Technology and Privacy Project, who studies free speech protections under the First Amendment, suggests to pack light if you’re going to a protest. Consider bringing water and a snack at minimum. If you bring a bag, prepare for it to be searched.

People should also remember that we’re still in times of pandemic, so “wearing a mask can keep you from breathing in droplets containing coronavirus.” Coming within close contact of other protesters could expose you to their spit or sneezes, which may carry the coronavirus.

When it comes to taking photos and videos at the protest, as long as it’s a public space, you’re free to do so. Emerson Sykes, a staff attorney with the ACLU’s Speech, Technology and Privacy Project, who studies free speech protections under the First Amendment, told Mercury News that you have the right to take photos and videos of what’s happening at a protest in a public place. You are able to record police, too.

Another good tip from Sykes is to “memorize or write on your arm the number to a local or national law organization that could assist you in getting out of jail,” because you never know if you're gonna need legal help or in case you get arrested.