Forgive my stupid question, but if you don't sign up for a protest, then do you hear about one and just...show up? Asking as someone who may want to attend a protest in the future. I'm just curious if there's anything I should know.
Replies
That's pretty much the long and short of it. Protests will usually be organized by activists who will then use word-of-mouth and social media to make folks aware of it. Anonymity is important during a demonstration, so make sure you wear non-descript clothing and turn biometrics off on your phone.
jun 11, 2025, 7:42 pm • 20 1 • view
for similar reasons, be wary of any protests that seem highly organized. if there are open organizers and, like, fliers and social media spamming, they don't understand this and may be much more risky than is necessary. a good protest almost seems spontaneous, even if there are organizers behind it
jun 13, 2025, 2:29 am • 3 0 • view
Ok cool, thanks for the advice!
jun 11, 2025, 9:36 pm • 4 0 • view
There are some decent articles about data privacy at protests too btw! Some phones have a mode you can turn on that shuts off biometrics and location tracking automatically
jun 12, 2025, 11:22 pm • 2 0 • view
That's not enough, police use stingrays that will record where your phone is and who it belongs to, in some cases even when it's "off". If you buy a burner use cash and make sure it and your regular phone are never in the same zip code. Keep it in a safe deposit box until needed.
jun 13, 2025, 1:50 am • 0 0 • view
You honestly shouldnt bring your phone if at all possible
jun 13, 2025, 12:49 am • 2 0 • view
I do need my phone in order to use public transit, but I will be turning it off as soon as I can.
jun 13, 2025, 12:52 am • 2 0 • view
And blue tooth, and GPS. Preferably just don't bring it or turn it off and carry a burner to record.
jun 12, 2025, 12:27 am • 6 0 • view
Yes. What the hell would they do with the lists? Are there seats to reserve?
jun 11, 2025, 9:05 pm • 8 0 • view
It's largely a recruitment tool. Blasting out emails for future events, fundraising/donations, petitions, op-eds, things like that.
jun 12, 2025, 11:44 pm • 0 0 • view
All the more reason not to put yourself on it.
jun 12, 2025, 11:49 pm • 0 0 • view
The only reason to sign up is if you wanna get involved with the org(s) sponsoring an event. Otherwise, just pull up and march
jun 12, 2025, 11:57 pm • 1 0 • view