Action Resource Guide: June 14, 2025 Military Parade

Sarah Flourance, Communications Director
Jun 13
3 min read

In light of the upcoming June 14th military parade—an event that directly impacts our community—we’ve created this guide to offer Arlingtonians a range of ways to engage, resist, and show up. We recognize that not everyone has the comfort, capacity, or privilege to participate in direct protest—and that resistance can take many powerful forms. Whether you choose to raise your voice in the streets, register voters at a farmers market, or write a letter to the editor, your engagement matters. This resource guide is meant to support our community in standing up to authoritarianism and promoting democratic values, safely and effectively.

🛡️ Protesting Safely

If you plan to participate in demonstrations at the parade, please keep in mind the following safety and advisory tips:

ACLU, Protestors’ Rights: Practical advice on your First Amendment rights, interacting with law enforcement, and what to do if you’re detained or witness police misconduct.
National Lawyers Guild (NLG) Know Your Rights Guide: A comprehensive guide covering police encounters, legal observers, what to bring (and not bring), and what to expect if arrested. A Spanish-language version is also available.

Additional Tips:

Go with a buddy and set a check-in plan.
When creating a check-in plan, be mindful that you may lose cell service in large crowds, as often happens in DC during a protest or other large events.
Bring ID, water, snacks, medication, a mask, and a portable charger.
Write important phone numbers (like legal support) on your skin where it won’t rub off.
Avoid wearing anything that could be seen as confrontational or that identifies your home, workplace, or name.
Turn off Face ID on your phone so law enforcement can’t use it to search your device.
Know your personal limits and risks so you can make quick decisions should a protest or situation escalate beyond your control

Please be aware of the surveillance and dangers that could be present at any protest action.

Try to be aware of which law enforcement agency(ies) have jurisdiction over any areas where are physically present. Many law enforcement agencies have jurisdiction in DC, and they have varying ranges of power and authority over protests, permitting, and authorized use of force. Even if you are protesting peacefully, there is always the risk of being targeted by law enforcement if you choose to protest. It is increasingly easy to be identified by surveillance technology, and it is not a given that due process will take place in good faith.

There is also the risk of provocation meant to escalate the stakes of a protest, which could draw in violence from outside parties or bring law enforcement attention to an otherwise peaceful protest. It could look like vigilantes trying to start physical fights in a peaceful protest or counterprotestors screaming at and personally insulting you so they can catch your reaction on video. It is a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, triggers, and actions at all times.