Protestors and journalists are being hurt during the Trump, Newsom battle for control of L.A.
As I recently noted, this is a perilous time in American history.
At no point in my lifetime has our Democracy been in such obvious danger.
Keep in mind that I was born about six weeks before Richard Nixon resigned the presidency in disgrace and scandal that rocked the nation.
These are serious, fraught times that require our vigilance and participation if the United States is to survive Trump’s continuing efforts to undermine our rights.
Currently, he is attempting to incite unrest in Los Angeles to justify his actions retroactively. Sending the Marines to LA against the wishes of California Governor Gavin Newsom indicates Trump is prepared to take a “fangs out” approach to asserting his dictatorial will against anyone who dares oppose him.
He also warned that anyone who protests this weekend at his gaudy, Red Square-esque military parade in Washington (which also happens to fall on his birthday) would face serious consequences.
“For those people that want to protest, they’re going to be met with very big force,” Trump warned in his trademark agrammatical manner.
A moment in history like this requires that the courageous and just-minded among us, no matter our political leanings, speak out, including protest and other acts of constitutionally protected civil disobedience.
Many of you in the Postindustrial Community are protest veterans who have let your voices be heard in cities and towns across America.
However, even those who have taken to the streets previously need a reminder of the dangers they face and suggestions on how to avoid getting hurt during both today’s Los Angeles protests against ICE policies and other future resistance.
During my career covering wars and armed uprisings, I’ve learned a handful of survival strategies that served me well … that is when I followed them. The one time I didn’t heed my own rules, I got hurt.
Here are some tips on how to survive the worst that can happen during a protest.
Plan ahead
If you’re marching in a large city or a small town, look at a map of where you’ll be. Familiar yourself with the streets and landmarks. Ask yourself, “What will I do if there is a shooter?” Where are the best places to take cover? What’s the escape route? (More on this below)
Don’t march alone
Even though protests are, by definition, a group activity, be sure to use the “buddy system” by having a designated person with you. Keep tabs on one another and watch each others’ backs. Stay in constant communication. Select a meeting place in case you get separated, and keep your phone nearby.
Be vigilant
While exercising your First Amendment rights to free speech, keep your eyes peeled. Constantly scan ahead of where the crowd is moving. Also, keep tabs on the people closest to you. Look out for weapons concealed under coats or long shirts. Never stop surveying your surroundings, and keep your head on a swivel.
Listen to your gut
When your instincts tell you something is fishy, walk away. Don’t be stupid. This is the rule I ignored when I was injured in Afghanistan. I had a hinky feeling that something was wrong just moments before I was shot. Had I listened to my inner voice telling me to get out of there, I may have avoided injury.
Be prepared
If tear gas is fired, soak a bandana in water and wear it around your nose and mouth for added protection. Move upwind to escape the gas. Stay low. Make sure you have plenty of water to remain hydrated and keep your bandana wet. Also, wear a belt, which, in the event you are shot in an appendage, can be used as a tourniquet to staunch the bleeding until you receive medical treatment.
Do not resist arrest
The unfortunate lesson of the Portland protests is that the unmarked, camo-wearing federal agents are all too keen on rounding up protesters with impunity and spiriting them away from demonstrations in unmarked minivans. If you are picked up by police or federal authorities, remain calm, don’t resist, and keep your mouth shut. In preparation for potential arrest, you’ll want to write the name and number of a trusted attorney on your arm in permanent marker so you can contact them from jail even if your phone and other belongings are confiscated. Many journalists who cover protests already do this.
When the shooting starts, get down
Stay as low as you can and cover your head. Don’t run unless you are standing next to the shooter. If you can, quickly take cover behind a vehicle (the engine block offers the best protection from high-powered weapons like the AR-15) or something else sturdy enough to stop a high-caliber bullet from a weapon designed to leave a hole in you the size of a grapefruit.
As much as it pains me to write this, considering the necessity of such precautions, it illustrates this country’s descent into madness. I hope they prove valuable and keep safe those risking their lives to speak out against injustice.
Thank you for taking a stand.
