Protesting During a Pandemic: what to expect and how to prepare
- Anna Gray
- Jun 17, 2020
- 6 min read
Black Lives Matter protest signs from the Chesham and Amersham protest
On Sunday 14th June, I finally attended a Black Lives Matter protest. As I said previously, due to an underlying health condition, I did not feel safe attending a large protest. I was both proud and surprised to discover that Chesham and Amersham, two small towns, had organised a joint Black Lives Matter protest in a park local to me. The smaller scale made me feel much less apprehensive, as I felt confident I could safely socially distance myself, and I wouldn’t have to take public transport. Also, one of the brilliant things about local protests is that they nurture change in small communities. If we can localise a global issue, we show sceptics that BLM is a concern in their own neighbourhood. We need to be making change in our own communities, as to make a real difference we need everyone on board.
The protest itself was incredibly moving, empowering and humbling. We gathered at Lowndes Park on a raised tarmac clearing, creating a sort of amphitheatre. Chants were started by Bea Wilson, leading us in calling ‘Black Lives Matter’ and ‘No Justice, No Peace’, with our fists in the air. I’m relieved to say the protest remained peaceful and respectful throughout, with no signs of hatred or violence. The day also marked three years since the Grenfell Tower fire, and we held a silence of remembrance.
People of all ages and races gathered to listen, to learn and to speak their truths. There were speeches from children, teenagers, adults and the elderly. Many spoke of their personal experiences, which were often sobering to hear and deeply personal. Anyone who wished to speak was encouraged to do so, with some prepared speeches and many impromptu, heartfelt moments. Local activist Jade Trowsdale literally jumped out of her shower upon hearing about the protest, joining us to share a brilliant speech on her experiences as a black woman. The eclectic voices created a real sense of community, mingled with the electricity of palpable change thrumming in the thick afternoon heat.
My only intention was to show up and give my support to the Black community, but the event affected me more than I could have anticipated. Having the opportunity to sit and listen to the experiences of POC in my local community was both arresting and hugely educational. It’s one thing to see images of Black people suffering in America, but another experience entirely to hear people who live on your doorstep discussing the racism they face every day. Attending local protests also gives you the chance to make connections with likeminded activists; it is near impossible to make a difference to any cause without a network.
Having said all this, I do think it’s crucial to be prepared. Bear in mind that I protested in the UK, and so my experience differs wildly from those of protestors in the US. Here are some of the things I’m glad I did prior to the protest, and others I wish I’d thought of:
1. Wear a mask. During a pandemic, gathering in close proximity to strangers can be dangerous. I highly recommend wearing a mask, if not for your safety, then for the safety of others.
If you’re looking to buy a mask, I bought one from wildthingsdresses on Etsy. It’s perfect because it’s a lightweight fabric so it’s still breathable, and the shape doesn’t make my glasses steam up!
2. Wear gloves and take hand sanitiser. I wish I’d remembered to do this! During the protest, I really wanted to stand up and speak. However I was nervous, as everyone was using the same microphone and I hadn’t brought gloves or hand sanitiser with me. I know this might sound prissy or stupid, but I am still apprehensive about catching Coronavirus. If I’d remembered gloves and hand sanitiser, I could have spoken at the protest without worrying.
3. Stay spread out. Keep 2m away from other protestors at all times (apparently that’s one Stephen Merchant lying down, if that helps anyone).
4. I’d really recommend bringing a protest buddy. I attended the protest alone, which left me feeling a little stranded at times. Based on previous experiences, I’ve felt much safer having someone with me whilst protesting. During a march in London, I felt as if I was about to pass out, and my phone died. Luckily, I had my sister with me, so she was able to contact our aunty who lived nearby. Always, always have backup – there’s strength in numbers, and you might just need it.
5. On that note, bring a small bag of useful things. I’d recommend a phone and a charging bank, a packed lunch and plenty of water. You’ll also want an umbrella, and maybe some sun-cream, depending on the weather. If you’re attending a march, it can be extremely tiring and may go on for hours. It’s important that you have everything you need, as it will be difficult to turn back when you’re in a throng of hundreds of people. Pack it in a tote if possible, as this is easier to keep an eye on in case of thieves.
6. Remember, if you don’t feel safe, get out. You are under no obligation to put yourself in danger. If the protest turns violent at any point, or you feel your life is at risk, try to get to a safe place. In one protest I attended last year, I found myself in a crush of people in Parliament Square. The square was filling up with thousands of protestors, but nobody could escape, and I had to climb over a fence to get to safety. Once on the other side, I was able to ask the police to unlock the gate so people could get out. Often, by ensuring your own safety, you can also ensure the safety of others.
7. Where possible, try to avoid public transport. I think this is fairly self-explanatory. By avoiding public transport, you also help to keep key workers safe.
8. Change your clothes, disinfect your belongings and have a shower as soon as you get home.
9. DO NOT go to a protest if you are unwell. If you or your family members have any symptoms of Coronavirus, please stay at home. Just because you can’t show up literally, it doesn’t mean you can’t be an activist and an ally. Stay at home and sign petitions, educate yourself, donate money to BLM charities. But, most importantly, get well. You won’t help anyone by infecting a crowd of protestors, especially when POC are more at risk.
10. Where possible, quarantine for two weeks following the protest. I’ve seen plenty of news reports blaming new Covid cases on BLM protests. That’s the last thing we need!
11. If you are arrested, let someone know. This is your right. Always keep friends and family informed of your whereabouts. I’d also recommend reading up on your rights in the instance of arrest; if you think arrest is a possibility, it’s crucial that you are prepared.
Here is a link with more information about your rights upon getting arrested in the UK: https://www.gov.uk/arrested-your-rights
12. Do not post images of other protestors’ faces/identifying tattoos to social media. You do not want to be violating privacy laws, or putting anyone at risk.
Most importantly, trust yourself. If you feel you need to get out, do so. Always trust your gut instincts, whether they tell you to help someone, get to safety, grab a microphone, or sit back and listen. Remember that if you are white, you have incredible privilege, and you may have to use it to protect someone else. Stay alert (yes, I know we’re sick of hearing this), as a protest can go from feeling safe to dangerous in seconds.
Regardless, I don’t want to deter anyone from attending a protest, as many are extremely well-organised. Personally, I found my local protest both respectful and peaceful, and I’m really glad I attended. By starting with a smaller gathering, I’ve been able to gage what it feels like to protest during a pandemic. I hope I can approach protests in the near future with heightened safety and insight.
Here's a page containing numerous links for ways you can help #BlackLivesMatter
Please also see my previous post for a selection of relevant petitions, resources and crowd funders.
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