How to stay safe if you protest — or counterprotest — in Texas on ‘No Kings Day’
Demonstrators in North Texas are expected to stage multiple “No Kings” protests Saturday, June 14, to coincide with the Trump administration’s large military parade in Washington, D.C., for the Army’s 250th birthday.
The protests are billed as peaceful “nationwide day of defiance ... to reject authoritarianism and show the world what democracy really looks like.” The No Kings website says all the events are committed to “nonviolent action.” But as we’ve already seen this week, large protests can quickly turn violent.
A Monday night rally in Dallas escalated when people blocked roadways and some demonstrators ignored officers’ warnings to disperse. The protesters said they were marching in solidarity with demonstrators in Los Angeles, who have been protesting immigration raids.
If you plan to protest or counter-protest in Texas, here’s what to know about staying safe, understanding your rights and protecting yourself.
What are my rights at a protest in Texas?
If you’re attending a protest, here are your basic rights, according to the ACLU and National Lawyers Guild:
You have the right to protest in public spaces like sidewalks, streets, and parks.
You can also protest in public plazas near government buildings, as long as you’re not blocking access or disrupting the space’s intended use.
You can record public officials, including police officers, as long as you don’t interfere.
If stopped by police, you’re only required to give your name in Texas if lawfully detained.
You have the right to remain silent if arrested. Ask for a lawyer and don’t sign anything without legal advice.
If you get pepper-sprayed or gassed, leave the area and flush your eyes with water or saline — not milk or oils.
Write emergency contacts and a lawyer’s number on your arm or a card. Phones can be confiscated or disabled.
What should I bring to a protest?
Whether it’s your first protest or your 50th, here’s a checklist from the Human Rights Campaign to help you stay prepared and safe:
Bring:
Layers of clothing without identifying logos
Goggles, N95s, or gas masks for chemical protection
Phone numbers written on your arm in case of arrest
Water, snacks, ID, saline flush, first aid, hand sanitizer and a power bank for your phone
Don’t bring:
Weapons or anything that could be mistaken for one
Illegal substances
Contact lenses (irritants can get trapped underneath)
Journals or anything you wouldn’t want read in court
How can I stay safe during a protest?
Staying safe at a protest isn’t just about what you wear. It’s about staying alert, calm, and intentional.
One helpful framework, recommended by the Human Rights Campaign, is the OODA Loop — a decision-making tool used in high-stress situations:
Observe: Be aware of your surroundings, especially crowd behavior, police presence or signs of escalation.
Orient: Take stock of where you are, what’s happening and what your safest options might be.
Decide: Make a clear choice on whether to stay, move positions or leave entirely.
Act: Carry out your plan and stay adaptable as the environment shifts.
If tensions rise, practice de-escalation:
Keep your voice calm and steady
Avoid aggressive or confrontational behavior
Step away from agitators and move to a safer area if needed
Keys to peaceful protesting:
Stay focused and nonviolent — your goal is to be heard, not provoke
Avoid engaging with provocateurs
Respect other protesters’ space and safety
Follow lawful orders, and remember: you have the right to remain silent
Also, go with a buddy if possible and share your location with someone you trust.
Where can I buy protest safety gear?
Here are some trusted sources in the North Texas area with safety supplies and tactical gear:
5.11 Tactical- 9329 North Freeway, Fort Worth
Ritz Safety- 1122 W Carrier Pkwy, Grand Prairie
Ultimate Tool and Safety- 2300 E. Arbrook Blvd. Suite 100, Arlington
For masks and eye protection:
Grainger Industrial Supply– 300 W. Vickery Blvd., Fort Worth
Harbor Freight Tools – Multiple North Texas locations
This story was originally published June 12, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
