In response to planned demonstrations for the Republican Presidential Primary Debate in Cleveland, the ACLU of Ohio has released the following protester advisory.
Executive Director Christine Link said, “Anyone in Cleveland and elsewhere in the country has the First Amendment right to protest and peaceably assemble. Despite media reports to the contrary, you do not need a parade permit from the city to peacefully protest, unless you plan to block traffic or cross an intersection as a group.”
Even though protesters are clearly protected by the constitution, the definition of “peaceful protest” may differ from person to person. It is important to differentiate between protesting with protected speech and using civil disobedience. With civil disobedience you are choosing to break the law, and perhaps be arrested to make a point. You need to be prepared for what happens when you are arrested.
More information about your protesting rights available at acluohio.org/protest.
