It’s not about looking fashionable, it’s about standing up for others. And that’s fashionable in it’s own right.

 

Looking for more ways to help? Check out a list of resources here. This doesn’t go away once the topic isn’t, “trending.”

 

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO A PROTEST

The key thing is comfort and mobility. You want to be able to run and dodge when needed.

1. HEAD AND FACE

Less is best. Don’t wear your contacts and don’t wear jewelry. If you have piercings, remove them if possible. Jewelry can be tagged, pulled or stepped on. Avoid wearing make-up as well.

While I’m huge on moisturizing, this is not the time for your skin care routine. Don’t wear lotions, creams, etc. Wearing oil or cream-based lotions can be a bad idea. These topical products can “catch” particles of tear gas or pepper spray holding them against the skin and making it difficult to rinse them off. This will also suck if you are wearing your contacts. Chemical sprays can get trapped in your eye, which can be very painful and cause permanent damage

You should wear a hat. Use it to protect your head from light projectiles and for privacy. Wear a face mask as well. You don’t want to be identifiable while people are taking videos and photos.

You don’t want your photo posted online by someone at the rally only for you to end up harassed, doxxed, or worse by the people you’re rallying against.

2. UPPER BODY AND ARMS

Layers are key. Wear clothing you can easily remove if the need arises (and that you won’t miss if you have to toss it.) Being able to slip out of an outer garment quickly can have some major advantages. For instance it can allow you to slip out of someone’s grasp. If you are wearing layers, it can allow you to escape noxious chemicals (like tear gas and pepper spray) that have seeped in to your clothes.

You want to be able to pull things off just in case. Even if the weather is warm, stick to long sleeves.

Here’s a layer idea: Leather/Denim jacket (Wear a zip up hoodie if not a available, but leather/denim is more durable. If you fall down, or get shoved into someone, the leather/denim is thick enough to protect your skin from scrapes and some bruises.) > Button down shirt > T-Shirt

Remember to also cover up any identifiable tattoos. 

Know your rights while demanding justice for George Floyd. pic.twitter.com/yErenarM8J

— ACLU (@ACLU) May 30, 2020

3. WHAT TO CARRY

Carry as little as possible. This might be the only time I’ll advise for a fanny pack / cross body bag. Carry your government issued ID and some money for transportation.

Consider making a homemade tear gas rinse. Some sources state that mixing Campden tablets (which contain the active ingredient sodium metabisulphate and are used in home brewing) with water produces a solution that neutralizes tear gas. Protesters have been known to use lemon juice, milk, and other kitchen ingredients to help rinse away tear gas. However, there haven’t been scientific studies to prove whether these are as effective as other solutions. When all else fails, use clean, clear water. It’s been proven to be fairly effective at treating eye inflammation.

Eat before you go out, don’t bring snacks. You don’t want a dog sniffing you out. Don’t bring drugs as well.

You might want to bring a burner phone just in case your phone gets lost, destroyed, or confiscated.

Don’t bring weapons.

4. LOWER BODY

Even if it’s warm, stick to pants or jeans of some kind. You want a thick fabric to protect you in case you fall down or end up kneeling. Cuff your jeans/pants so you don’t accidentally trip. Pants with no breaks would be the best here. Obviously, wear pants you don’t mind getting ripped, stained, or destroyed.

5. FOOTWEAR

Comfort and safety are key here. Leave your sandals at home. Wear shoes that are close-toed and that are comfortable to walk and stand in all day. Old sneakers are probably better than leather boots. You need shoes you can run in.

6. EXTRA ITEMS

Don’t go alone, go with a trusted friend. I’ve seen people also carry an umbrella. However, this could be misconstrued as a weapon as well. Use an umbrella as a form of camouflage or a shield.

Don’t forget your medication and/or menstrual pads if you need it. 

7. KEEP SAFE AFTER PROTESTING