- Talk to people! Folks at protests are some of the nicest you'll ever meet, and most of them love to talk. You'll probably learn more political information in one afternoon at a protest than in a week of reading books and websites.
- Dress for the weather, and for the activity. Standing by the side of the road with a "honk for my Marriage" sign, or listening to speakers at a rally, you're going to need to dress more warmly than if you're dancing and drumming all day. It's good to wear layers, and toe-warmers (from sporting goods stores, home depot and other similar places) are a lifesaver. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and don't forget about your ears. (Hats are wonderful in St. Louis when it is cold.)
- Make sure you do not bring anything that would be considered a weapon. We know this sounds like common sense, but few people realize that the sticks they use for their signs have to be no thicker than 1/4 inch or else they are considered a weapon.
- Bring food and drink, but don't over pack. Remember you're going to be carrying that bag all day. A thermos full of hot coffee or soup is a wonderful thing. A bottle of water is an absolute necessity.
- Don't bring anything breakable, like glass bottles or ceramic drums.
- Don't bring anything that would break your heart to lose. You're going to be running around outside all day, so that favorite scarf your grandma gave you might get lost.
- Make sure you have some cash with you, but not too much.
Know that you ARE making a difference. It might not feel like it, especially if you're at a small event where there is a lot of opposition, but you are making such an important contribution to the world. Even if just one person learned one piece of information that they didn't know before, you've accomplished a lot. Remember that you are not alone, there are millions of people around the world who feel the same way and support you.
(Materials above adapted from JOIN THE IMPACT and GOO GOO DOLLS FANS FOR PEACE)
