General Information about our Demonstrations
The Usual Info
The center of the rally is the Big Catch Plaza in Des Moines WA, located at the intersection of S 216th Street and Marine View Drive. From this core location, let's extend our presence in all four directions—north and south on Marine View Drive, utilizing the sidewalks on both sides of the street, and east and west on 216th.
When creating posters, please align with the theme of the day. Our shared 'library' of posters will be available for borrowing.
Parking can be a challenging issue, especially for large events. While there is limited parking on the east side of Marine View Drive at the corner by the gas station, we want to discourage you from taking spaces in front of the strip mall to allow businesses room for their customers. We encourage finding parking further away from the plaza—south on Marine View Drive or on the next street, 7th Street. To be good neighbors, please avoid parking on Wesley Des Moines properties up 216th, as their parking is reserved for residents and guests.
Please ensure not to block crosswalks or access to crosswalk signals. Additionally, be considerate of those wanting to board or exit the bus to ensure full accessibility. Most importantly, do not step into the street or reach into the street with your posters or flags, as safety is our top priority. Our right to assemble does not extend into the streets. Stay aware of your surroundings; your posters or flags should not obstruct others’ viewpoints. If participants become too crowded, please spread out further.
Unfortunately, we will not have porta-parties available and apologize for any inconvenience as they are quite costly.
The cash donations collected at the registration table will be split between Seniors for the Constitution and Des Moines Indivisible.
Des Moines Indivisible uses the donations to distribute "know your rights" information, as well as to provide emergency and after-care services to our high-risk neighbors.
Avoid engaging with hecklers—it's best to walk away, as conversations are unlikely to change minds in this context. If you feel uncomfortable, leave the area. Above all, do not become a heckler of our opponents, as that will detract from our message. If you see a monitor wearing a yellow-green vest, please call on them for support.
If a monitor advises you to step back or spread out, please comply; this contributes to maintaining a peaceful demonstration. If you require assistance, get the attention of a monitor, who can coordinate any needed external help.
Transportation is available for residents of Wesley Homes needing assistance to reach the rally. They should be ready in front of their respective buildings at 11:45. Drivers in blue vests will also periodically circle back to assist residents returning home whenever they wish.
Both of our organizations are dedicated to upholding peaceful demonstration guidelines. We appreciate your attention to these important guidelines.
Our Peaceful Demonstration Guidelines
All our demonstrations are intended to be peaceful. Please follow these guidelines
GUIDELINES FOR DEMONSTRATION PARTICIPATION
First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution – Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
Our expression is constitutionally protected in traditional public forums such as streets, sidewalks, and parks. Following the demonstration guidelines set forth, allow enough space for normal pedestrian traffic. Do not obstruct or detain passers-by, and do not block access to adjacent buildings.
Counter-demonstrators also have free speech rights, but they should not be allowed to physically disrupt the event they are protesting. They do, however, have the right to be present and voice their displeasure. ALWAYS avoid engaging with counter-protesters; JUST WALK AWAY. Do not be provoked or goaded into interaction.
The police are charged with safeguarding the public during a demonstration, but they cannot use their powers to stop you from exercising your free speech rights. Police are not allowed to break up a gathering unless there is a “clear and present danger” of riot, disorder, interference with traffic upon the public streets, or other immediate threat to public safety.
If approached by the police, you have the right to remain silent. If asked, you must provide your name and address but are not required to say anything else. Protect the privacy of your fellow demonstrators, including those from organizations like Des Moines Indivisible and Seniors for the Constitution.
Be aware of the tone you are demonstrating. Remember, you are pro-democracy. Maintain 360 degrees of situational awareness, knowing what is happening around you at all times. If you see something suspicious, inform a monitor in a yellow vest.
When you are lawfully present in any public space, you have the right to photograph anything in plain view, including the police. Washington State and federal courts have upheld the right to record or observe the police performing their official duties in public, as long as the conduct does not interfere with police operations. Individuals should keep a reasonable distance and avoid interfering with police activities while recording.
Stay hydrated and dress for the expected weather. Wear comfortable shoes. Fully charge your cellphone, but switch it to airplane mode unless you're actively using it.
Let an emergency contact know you are participating.
