Protesters Should Know Their Rights and Responsibilities For Civil Actions
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kirsten Bokenkamp, Communications Coordinator, ACLU Foundation of Texas, (713) 942-8146 x 109 or (832) 691-7013; [email protected]
HOUSTON– The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Texas has made a Know-Your-Rights guide on free speech and the right to protest available to individuals who may be participating in nonviolent “Occupy Wall Street” protests planned in San Antonio, El Paso, Dallas, Austin, and Houston on October 6.
“The organizers of the protests say the demonstrations will be peaceful, and our first concern is that everybody stays safe,” said Terri Burke, Executive Director of the ACLU of Texas. “The right to protest is a long-standing protection afforded by the U.S. and Texas Constitutions. With so many people recently arrested in the New York City protests, it is important that those protesting understand their rights, but also understand that the government has the legal authority to restrict some protest activities.”
A city permit is often required for public demonstrations. The ACLU of Texas recommends that organizers of any protest review the ordinances in their city to ensure that they understand and fulfill any requirements.
The “Right to Protest” brochure is available on the ACLU of Texas’ Facebook and Twitter pages, can be seen here, and is free to download and distribute. The information in the brochure is not legal advice; and the ACLU of Texas urges anyone who believes their rights have been violated to contact a lawyer or the ACLU of Texas at www.aclutx.org.
