Many colleges and universities are attempting to suppress students peacefully protesting against Israel’s genocide, ethnic cleansing, and forced starvation in Gaza. Student protesters have faced censorship, intimidation, and retaliation from their schools—including the use of excessive law enforcement presence.
Protesting is an important way to exercise your right to free speech and make your voice heard on issues that are important to you. CAIR-CA wants to remind the community to stay safe by knowing their rights if they are stopped by law enforcement while protesting.
Stay calm, make sure to keep your hands visible, and do not argue, resist, or obstruct the police even if you believe they are violating your rights.
If you are stopped, ask the officer if you are free to leave. If the answer is ‘yes,’ calmly walk away.
If you are detained, ask the officer what crime you are suspected of committing. If you are arrested for an infraction and you have a valid I.D. on you, the police must give you a ticket and release you on the spot unless you refuse to sign the ticket.
If you are under arrest, you have the right to ask why. Otherwise, say you wish to remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not say anything or sign anything without a lawyer.
You should never consent to a search of yourself or your belongings. Police may “pat down” your clothing if they suspect you have a weapon and may search you after an arrest.
Keep phone numbers on your person (i.e., write them on your arm) in case you are detained and arrested. You are allowed to make up to three local phone calls if you are arrested.
If you have questions or believe your rights have been violated, please reach out to the nearest CAIR-CA office to report an incident.
