Situational Awareness and Personal Safety

Engaging in anti-fascist work, like any form of activism, can sometimes involve risks. It's important to be prepared and to prioritize your personal safety. This section provides basic guidance on situational awareness, de-escalation techniques, and knowing your rights. This is not a substitute for professional training, and we encourage you to seek out additional resources and training in these areas.

A. Basic Principles of Situational Awareness:

Situational awareness is about being aware of your surroundings and assessing potential threats. It's about being proactive, rather than reactive.

• Pay Attention: This is the foundation. Put down your phone, look around, and actively observe what's happening around you. Don't be afraid to look "silly".

• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels wrong, it probably is. Don't ignore your gut feeling. If a situation or person makes you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation if possible.

• Avoid Potentially Dangerous Situations: This might seem obvious, but it's worth emphasizing. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid areas or situations that seem risky. This could include poorly lit areas, isolated locations, or gatherings where there is a high potential for violence.

• Plan Ahead: Before attending a protest or event, think about potential risks and plan how you will respond.

• Have an Exit Strategy: Know how you will leave the area if necessary.

• Buddy System: Attend events with a friend or group of friends.

• Share Your Location: Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.

• Body Language Awareness: Learn to recognize potentially aggressive or threatening body language in others. This can include:

• Clenched fists

• Staring intensely

• Standing in a bladed stance (one foot back, body angled)

• Rapid breathing

• Invading personal space

• Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance from anyone who seems agitated or threatening.

B. De-escalation Techniques:

If you find yourself in a tense or potentially volatile situation, de-escalation techniques can help you reduce tension and avoid violence.

• Stay Calm: This is the most important thing. Take deep breaths and try to remain calm and centered. Your own calmness can help de-escalate the situation.

• Active Listening: Listen attentively to the other person's concerns, even if you don't agree with them. Let them speak without interrupting (unless they are being verbally abusive). Show them that you are listening by nodding, making eye contact, and using verbal affirmations ("I understand," "I hear you").

• Empathy: Try to understand the other person's perspective, even if you don't agree with it. Acknowledge their feelings (e.g., "I can see that you're frustrated").

• Respectful Communication: Use respectful language and avoid insults, threats, or name-calling. Speak calmly and clearly.

• Non-Threatening Body Language: Maintain open and non-threatening body posture. Avoid pointing, clenching your fists, or making sudden movements. Keep your hands visible.

• Find Common Ground: Try to identify areas of agreement or shared goals, even if they are small.

• Offer Options: If possible, give the other person choices, which can help them feel more in control.

• Know When to Disengage: If de-escalation is not working, or if you feel unsafe, disengage. It's okay to walk away. Your safety is the priority.

C. Knowing Your Rights (Protesting/Activism):

If you're engaging in protests or other forms of activism, it's crucial to know your rights. Laws vary by location, so this is general guidance; you should research the specific laws in your area.

(Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. Consult with a legal professional for specific legal guidance.)

• General Rights (US-Focused):

• Freedom of Speech: You have the right to express your views, even if they are unpopular or critical of the government.

• Freedom of Assembly: You have the right to gather peacefully with others.

• Right to Protest: You have the right to protest on public property, but there may be restrictions on time, place, and manner. Permits may be required for large gatherings.

• Right to Record Police: In most cases, you have the right to record police officers in public, as long as you are not interfering with their duties.

• Right to Remain Silent: If you are arrested, you have the right to remain silent and to speak with an attorney. You do not have to answer questions without an attorney present.

• Right to an Attorney: If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you.

• What to Do If Arrested:

• Remain Calm: Do not resist arrest, even if you believe you have done nothing wrong.

• Say "I am going to remain silent. I want to speak to a lawyer." Repeat this clearly and firmly.

• Do Not Answer Questions: Do not answer any questions without an attorney present.

• Do Not Sign Anything: Do not sign anything without consulting with an attorney.

• Remember Details: Try to remember the details of the arrest, including the officers' names and badge numbers, the time and location, and any witnesses.

• Location-Specific Information: Laws and regulations regarding protests and activism vary significantly by location. Research the specific laws in your city, state, and country.

D. Resources:

• Self-defense (with a focus on de-escalation and non-violent techniques)

• De-escalation training

• Legal rights for protesters and activists (e.g., ACLU, National Lawyers Guild, local legal aid organizations)

• Bystander intervention training