Joining the protests today? Here are 10 tips
Today marks the 45th anniversary of the declaration of martial law.
Various groups will once again hold protests in different parts of Metro Manila to demand justice for victims of human rights violations during the 20-year regime of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
Thousands are expected to march to the streets after President Rodrigo Duterte suspended classes in public schools and work in government offices last week by declaring Sept. 21 a ‘National Day of Protest.’
With classes suspended in the University today in anticipation of the mass mobilizations, you might have been considering joining one as an opportunity to voice out your concerns on the various issues currently plaguing the country.
Is it your first time joining a protest? TomasinoWeb prepared 10 essential tips for first-timers joining a rally:
Educate yourself first
Mobilizations are about educating people and informing the public of your cause. Thus, protests are useless if you don’t know what you are fighting for. Take time to read and do research. Get to know the organizers and what their ideologies are.
Know your rights
Paralegal bust cards are available for free on the website of Karapatan, a human rights advocacy group. You can review them, print them, or save them on your phones so you can easily access them in times of need, not just during protests.
March with your friends
A protest is always a collective effort. Bring in some of your friends so you can share with them your advocacy and unite them to the cause.
Always bring ‘extra’
Extra shirts, extra water, extra caps, extra umbrellas, extra towels, extra food, extra money. Protests can be dehydrating and exhausting.
Load up
Make sure that your family and friends know where you are by charging up your phone and having a good amount of prepaid load for calls and messages. And don’t forget your power banks!
Wear comfortable clothes
For example, groups will assemble along España Blvd. today, 12 n.n., and they will be marching to Mendiola, then to Luneta Park. A protest is a long walk — so wear your most comfortable shirt and footwear.
Creativity is a big plus
Protests are also the best places to display millennial wit and humor amidst serious political issues. Bring your wittiest and most creative placards or artworks to express your cause.
Be calm when talking to authorities
Talking to authorities can be very intimidating; however, just remember to always answer them politely and be direct-to-the-point in your responses. As much as possible, be cooperative — but always assert your rights.
Take note of exit points
Individuals joining protests are always advised to know every possible exit point in their protest area in case of emergencies.
But lastly, be brave
As activists would say, the real fight is in the streets. Be brave. — P. Jamilla
