Statement of Non-violence

About de-escalation

Counterprotesters also have free speech rights.  They are permitted to counter-protest.

Stay aware of your surroundings.  Keep your head on a swivel. 

If approached by someone aggressive, avoid engaging and keep a safe distance away.

Maintain a Supportive Stance: Use calm, open body language. 

Maintain personal space and use neutral facial expressions and gestures.

Active Listening: Sometimes, letting a person vent can defuse a situation. Let them vent (briefly). Keep the focus on shared concerns rather than disagreements.

Never argue back. It feeds the conflict and distracts from your cause.

Keep tone of voice low, keep speed of voice slow.  

Slow down body movements.

No finger pointing, puffing up, or pacing.

Posture yourself at the same level as them.  Do not get in a situation where you are looking down at them.  

Keep hands out and open. 

Acknowledge how they feel.  

Be empathetic.