Family-Friendly Protest Safety Guide

Before You Arrive

Go with friends or join a contingent – don’t march alone. Stay connected to a group and avoid arriving or leaving protests alone, or
Buddy system – pair up with someone and always know each other’s location.
Emergency contacts – write emergency contacts on your arm in case your phone is lost or damaged.

During the March

Positioning – Families for Palestine usually march towards the back of the march, depending on the number of families with prams or the elderly. Try not to get separated and take notice if someone is left behind. Agree on a backup meeting point if the group is separated.
Stay aware – keep an eye on possible exits, police presence, and agitators. Do not engage with agitators, stay calm and move on.
Community care – check in and keep an eye out for signs of distress in children and vulnerable adults.

Plan for Children’s Safety

Contacts – on a card, provide children with important names and contact information.
Plan ready in case you’re separated – Discuss and agree on a course of action if separated.
Visibility – Consider dressing yourself or your children in identifiable clothing e.g. bright coloured clothing and take a photo of your child/children.

Security & Privacy

Wear a mask – to protect your identity.
Be mindful of posting photos or videos – avoid sharing identifiable images of other protesters.
Phone safety – disable face or fingerprint recognition (you can’t be legally forced to give up a passcode without a court order). Consider temporarily deleting communication apps like WhatsApp or Signal.

Legal Rights and De-escalation

Look out for legal observers – they wear high-vis jackets and monitor police interactions.
Know your rights – check out @Legal Observers NSW page for resources.
If approached by police – Stay calm and speak respectfully. Ask, “Am I free to leave?” Comply with move-on orders and do not argue or resist arrest.

What to Bring

Essentials – bring ID, water, snacks, comfortable shoes, and clothes, first aid kit, cash, and a notepad.
Weather prep – check the weather forecast and dress app.

Exit Plan and Debrief

Have an exit strategy – know how and when to leave. Share your plan with your buddy.
Debrief – check in with each other and your children. Talk about why you attended the protest and the importance of speaking up for justice.