The right to peacefully assemble is written in our Constitution. So why does it feel like protesters are constantly in danger? Every night on the news you can see protests in areas like Minneapolis, and there is often a heavy police presence. It all creates a disconnect between what the law says and how it feels in real life.

The first time I noticed these crackdowns in the U.S. was around 2020 following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. At times I noticed that peaceful protesters were treated with the same severity as rioters. The case of peaceful protests potentially turning into a violent one is a valid concern. The safety of the public is important, but so are civil liberties. And protecting civil liberties is also directly related to the safety of the public. By the end of June 2020, at least 14,000 people had been arrested in these protests. … And by June 2020- according to Prism statistics, more than 19 people had died in relation to the unrest.

The second time I noticed these crackdowns was in 2024. Over 3,000 people were arrested or detained during pro-Palestinian Gaza encampment protests on U.S. college campuses in spring 2024. While encampments are different from simply protesting in the street, the violence of which some these protesters were treated even when they were being civil and peaceful is unprecedented. Some were pretty close to us, like the 2024 encampment at Washington University that resulted in 100+ arrests and lasted until November. Some were even deported if they were in America on a student visa.

One of the factors that I believe contributed to this is the general public merging their opinions of protesters and rioters together. There is a difference. Whenever I mention protesters getting arrested, I always seem to get the same response. “Well, they probably got violent.” If the protester got violent or was doing something illegal, then they are considered a rioter and not a protester. While protesters can become rioters, that doesn’t mean that all protesting is considered a riot. It only turns to such when weapons, violence, or destruction of property are used.

Minnesota has been a hot topic recently due to their ICE protests. Two citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti were shot by ICE agents. Along with the Minnesota court allowing ICE agents to tear gas peaceful protesters, this all caused a wave of protesting along the streets of Minneapolis. Things seem to be slightly calming down however, with Gov. Tim Walz saying he anticipates a significant decrease in ICE presence. Whether this is due to the protesting or not, we’re unsure.

It’s important for youth to know, despite what the news makes it seem like, it is absolutely legal to protest. If you are wondering how to get involved, you can visit mobilize.us, and for safe protesting tips you can visit HRC. Make sure to stay safe and engage in peaceful protesting practices.