Know-Your-Rights Pamphlet Advises Demonstrators, Offers Help From ACLU Lawyers

Richmond, VA –In anticipation of planned demonstrations around the state, the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia has released a protester’s know-your-rights informational brochure.  The brochure offers basic information about the rights of protesters, the limitations of those rights, and what to do when rights are violated.
“Peaceful protests are a culturally acceptable and constitutionally protected practice,” said ACLU of Virginia Executive Director Kent Willis, “but we have noticed a growing tendency by police to overreact to them.”
“While our information is geared toward protesters, we hope law enforcement personnel will read it, too,” added Willis.  “If everyone – protesters and police alike – know the law and their limits, we’ll come through the protests without incident.”
Protest groups are emerging around the state, many affiliated with the “Occupy Wall Street” movement in New York City.  The demonstrations in New York attracted national attention when over 700 protesters were arrested while marching on the Brooklyn Bridge.
“The bottom line is that protesters who believe their free speech rights have been violated should call us,” said Willis.   We can help so long as the protester has not violated the law.”
The full brochure, which can be found at http://acluva.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/ACLU-VA-KYR-to-Protest.pdf, answers such questions as:

What speech activities are protected by the First Amendment?

Can my speech be restricted, even if it is controversial?

Can a speaker be silenced for provoking a crowd?

Where can I engage in free speech activity?

Do I need a permit?

Contact: Kent Willis, Executive Director, 804-644-8022