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-LA wants to remind the community to stay safe by knowing their rights if they are stopped by law enforcement while protesting.
*This serves as a guide and does not constitute legal advice. If you need more direct assistance, please contact CAIR-LA’s civil rights department.
Remain Calm
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.
Ask if You Are Free To Go
If you are stopped, ask the officer if you are free to leave. If the answer is ‘yes,’ calmly walk away.
Ask What Crime You Are Suspected of Committing
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.
Remain Silent
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.
Do Not Consent to a Search
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 You
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.
What To Do if You Believe Your Rights Have Been Violated
- When you can, write down everything you remember, including the law enforcement officers’ badge, patrol car numbers, and the agency they work for.
- Get contact information from witnesses and take photos of any injuries.
- Once you have all this information, you can file a written complaint with the agency’s internal affairs division or civilian complaint board.
If you have questions or believe your rights have been violated, please reach out to CAIR-LA’s Civil Rights department at (714) 776-1177 or click here to report an incident.
To view our full Know Your Rights While Protesting guide, click here.
