Whether you're protesting, voting, documenting, or simply existing while marginalized—you have rights. Know them. Use them. Defend them.
This guide provides general information about legal rights in the United States. It is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and locality, and situations vary. For specific legal questions, consult a licensed attorney. If you're arrested, ask for a lawyer immediately.
The First Amendment protects your right to assemble, speak, and petition the government. But those rights have limits and nuances you need to understand.
You have the right to protest in "traditional public forums" like streets, sidewalks, and parks. You generally don't need a permit for marches that stay on sidewalks and don't block pedestrian traffic.
Large gatherings or marches that require street closures may need permits. Failure to obtain one can result in arrest, though the protest itself remains protected speech.
You have the right to photograph or video record anything visible in public spaces, including police officers performing their duties. Police cannot demand you delete photos or videos, and they cannot confiscate your phone without a warrant.
You do not have to answer police questions. You can say: "I am exercising my right to remain silent" and "I want to speak with a lawyer." In some states, you must provide your name if asked, but nothing more.
Police cannot search you or your belongings without consent, a warrant, or probable cause. You can say: "I do not consent to a search." They may search anyway—do not physically resist, but continue stating you don't consent.
Voter suppression takes many forms—from intimidation to bureaucratic obstacles. Know your rights so no one can take your vote.
If your name isn't on the voter rolls, your ID is questioned, or there's any dispute about your eligibility—you have the right to cast a provisional ballot. Insist on it. It will be counted once your eligibility is verified.
It is a federal crime for anyone to intimidate, threaten, or coerce you in connection with voting. This includes armed individuals "monitoring" polling places, employers threatening job consequences, and aggressive poll watchers.
If you have difficulty reading or have a disability, you can bring someone to help you vote (except your employer or union representative). Polling places must be accessible to voters with disabilities.
Most states require employers to give workers time off to vote if their schedule doesn't allow time before or after work. Some states require this time to be paid. Check your state's laws.
In most states, you have the right to request a paper ballot if voting machines are available. If your state uses electronic voting without a paper trail, advocate for change.
If you experience or witness voter intimidation, machine malfunctions, or any voting irregularities, report them immediately to election protection hotlines and the Department of Justice.
866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683)
888-VE-Y-VOTA (888-839-8682)
888-API-VOTE (888-274-8683)
844-YALLA-US (844-925-5287)
Whether you're credentialed press or a citizen journalist with a phone, the First Amendment protects your right to document what happens in public.
You have the right to photograph, film, and report on anything visible in public spaces—including protests, police activity, and government buildings (from public property). No credential or permission is required.
Many states have "shield laws" protecting journalists from being forced to reveal confidential sources. Federal protections are weaker. Know your state's laws and use encrypted communications.
The government generally cannot prevent you from publishing something (prior restraint). They may try to punish publication after the fact in narrow circumstances, but cannot stop you from publishing.
Federal courts have consistently ruled that recording police performing their duties in public is protected by the First Amendment. Police cannot order you to stop recording or delete footage.
Regardless of your immigration status, you have constitutional rights. Knowing them can protect you and your family.
You have the right not to answer questions about your immigration status, where you were born, or how you entered the country. You can say: "I choose not to answer that question."
ICE and other officers cannot enter your home without a valid warrant signed by a judge. Ask them to slip the warrant under the door. An ICE administrative warrant (Form I-200 or I-205) does NOT allow entry—only a judicial warrant does.
You have the right to speak with a lawyer before signing anything or answering questions. You can say: "I need to speak with my lawyer first." Never sign documents you don't understand.
In most cases, you have the right to appear before an immigration judge. Do not sign away this right. Do not sign a "voluntary departure" order without understanding the consequences.
844-363-1423
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