Guide to Behavior: How to Hold Yourself at the Ceremonial Gathering 8/21/2021

Disclaimers:

Event organizers do not expect arrests at this event. Event organizers have applied for a permit for this event on 8/12/2021, and we will update those who respond on this page with the permit status, whether approved or denied. Regardless of permit status, organizers do plan to hold the event.

Event organizers expect people to follow the values that the tribal leaders have asked supporters to abide by (see below). This is an Indigenous-led movement with Indigenous leaders, and we're asking people to respect their leadership. If police arrive, the only person/people who should speak with them are Indigenous leaders and/or the police liaison.

These and other important points of behavior below are also in this full-page "Guide to Behavior" PDF.

Important behavioral points to know at the rally:

• Respectfully participate in the ceremony only when asked and invited.

• Do not block roadways or exits.

• Remember who is most at-risk at a protest, and make sure that you are aware of your privilege and position while participating in events that may lead to police involvement.

• This is a peaceful action. The goal is to hold space and ceremony alongside Indigenous leaders to bring awareness and educate the public on what Line 3 is.

• Do not escalate, do not bring weapons, come dressed in clothing that is climate appropriate, and please do not come dressed for a riot.

• If a person attempts to escalate or incite violence, step away from them until they are standing alone and isolated so they may be identified and asked to leave.

• This is a climate movement, and to leave the space that we occupy filled with litter and trash would be a disservice to the movement.

• Do not touch regalia or sacred items without permission or consent. Even if items are to fall, please allow a Native person to handle that.

If police are present:

• Line 3 is an abolition movement. The police are not your friends. Do not speak with them, unless you are a designated police liaison.

• Agitation is not permitted.

• We want to avoid violent arrests that may further traumatize BIPOCs who have, over the last few years, seen too many violent arrests of friends and family.

• If escalation happens, we ask that allies step forward and put their bodies in between law enforcement and ceremony/BIPOC who are at greater harm and risk of being arrested.

• We ask that you keep in mind that ceremony is considered sacred space, and colorful language is not permitted in ceremonial spaces. That includes when speaking to the police.

Know your rights in D.C.!

• You are entitled to your First Amendment rights. This, however, does not protect you during civil disobedience or speech that is threatening or provokes people to violate laws.

• You have the right to take photographs and video during a protest or demonstration. This right includes recordings of law enforcement activity, as long as you do not interfere with police activity or their operations. Police officers cannot confiscate your recordings, phone, camera, or other equipment without a warrant.

• If involved in police conflict, try memorizing the officer's badge number, name, or any other identifying information.

• You may be arrested for the misdemeanors of blocking a public passageway or disorderly conduct, if you ignore law enforcement’s order to disperse.

• You do not have to give law enforcement your name or show identification, unless you are suspected of criminal activity.

• You have the right to leave the protest location if you are not under arrest. Ask if you are free to leave. If you are, walk away. If you are not, ask why.

• You have the right to remain silent and cannot be arrested for refusing to answer questions by law enforcement. Statements that you do make can be used against you. If you wish to remain silent, say so out loud.

• If you are arrested, you may be held at the scene or a local police district until you can be processed. Your identifying information, photograph, or fingerprints may be taken and any prior criminal history, warrants, or unpaid parking or traffic tickets identified.