Today’s rally in the park had more people than I thought would actually come out.

And I sincerely hope that people picked up after themselves. This city hosted the rally, and has hosted many others. I’m composing (in my head) a zine called Ethical Protest, which will give activists some pointers for minding their manners. Here’s a boiled down version of what I’m thinking about:

  1. Familiarize yourself with the city you plan to protest in, finding out things like where to park, where the jails are, and where the restrooms are.
  2. Avoid fast food! Give your support to the people and businesses of the host city. (Today I saw a lot of people walking in with Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks. Gasp!)
  3. Throw your trash in receptacles, or carry it out with you. Just because you don’t live here doesn’t mean nobody else does. We don’t enjoy your empty coffee cups and napkins blowing into our streets.

Thanks and have a nice day!