With the rise of the Internet, it’s become increasingly feasible to organize large protests and marches in a short time frame. In the past few years, groups with a passion and an internet connection have protested the Dakota Access Pipeline, discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and the treatment of black men by police. Most recently, people nationwide marched to protest Donald Trump’s inauguration.

Protesting is an important part of the democratic process and every citizen’s right as guaranteed by the First Amendment, but effective protesting requires guidelines for how to behave. As Duncan Green, author of a book on protesting, “How Change Happens”, said in an interview with NPR on Thursday, “If you only think about protests, you’re missing half of the action.

Be aware: Protesting, while legal and protected by your first amendment rights, is not risk-free. You could be arrested, assaulted, or stigmatized. Be aware of what protesting means before you commit yourself. Understanding that protesting carries with it the risk of arrest, something that will follow you on college and job application.

Protest Convention: Show up early if asked and follow the guidelines of the organizers of the protest. Know who the group leaders are and where they are in relationship to you. Don’t bring a purse or backpack, and if you bring a banner or flag, remove its metal, plastic or wooden pole.

Stay Peaceful: Protests are legal on the condition that marchers don’t obstruct traffic. Resorting to violence can legitimize your cause. Nonviolent protests should spread awareness to cause action.

Stay Safe: Above all, watch out for yourself. Amidst a crowd of volatile protesters, expect police or anti-protesters to approach you. For anti-protesters, respond calmly and do not escalate the situation to more than a discourse between individuals. For officers, obey all police orders and make sure they can see your hands clearly. If a police officer detains you, remain calm and simply state your purpose unless told otherwise.

Be prepared: Carry a cellphone in your pocket and extra cash in your shoe. After arrested, you may have to forfeit your belongings so keep contact information for support such as a lawyer or someone who can help you written on your skin or clothes or in a place which would not be confiscated during an arrest. Contact your support person immediately after arrest. This may require calling from a phone inside prison so make sure to have spare change to pay for a call.

For Comfort: Dress in layers and comfortable shoes – you’ll likely be walking a lot. Check the weather and dress appropriately. Bring snacks to keep your energy up and water to stay hydrated.

Always remember the main reason you are protesting – to effect change. Change does not occur in the blink of an eye; protesting is one step in the direction for reform.

This piece was originally published in the pages of The Winged Post on January 24, 2017.