Guidelines for Organizing and Participating in a Protest as Democrats Abroad

Organizing a protest abroad is a powerful way to amplify your voice and build community. It's also a great energizer and really helps build team unity!

This page guides you through the key steps for planning a successful protest, with tips on location, messaging, and working with partners to ensure alignment with Democrats Abroad values.

Remember - if 3.5% of a population protests, regime change happens

Planning a protest or joining a larger march requires thoughtful preparation to ensure impact, safety, and alignment with our values. Use these guidelines to help structure your event effectively.

Choosing a Location

Selecting the right location can enhance visibility and effectiveness.

✅ Do:

• Choose iconic spots in your city or town (main squares, recognizable landmarks).

• If marching, start at a good meeting point where you can talk through goals and guidelines.

• Plan a post-march gathering at a restaurant, café, or pub to continue the conversation.

❌ Don't:

• Avoid locations in front of local government offices—our message is to the world, not local officials.

Key Dos and Don'ts for Democrats Abroad Protests

✅ Dos

• Follow all local laws regarding assemblies, rallies, and marches.

• If a permit isn't available, check if a standing demonstration is allowed.

• Stand up as loyal opposition—hold the Republican Congress accountable and call out DOGE.

• Remind protesters to register and be ready to vote this year and next.

• Keep the focus on Democratic values and what we need to achieve in the U.S.

❌ Don'ts

• Don't use anti-USA language or signage.

• Don't hold the U.S. flag upside down or suggest burning it.

• Don't mix the DA brand with other political party brands during events.

• Don't endorse or condemn local political parties or candidates.

• Don't invite local political figures to speak at a DA-organized protest.

• Don't discuss local politics or U.S. foreign policy in DA-led protests (unless explicitly approved, e.g., supporting the Paris Climate Accords).

Working with Partners (as Dems Abroad)

✅ Do Partner With:

• Other American abroad organizations.

• Left-leaning groups that are not affiliated with a political party or government.

❌ Don’t Partner With:

• Organizations that must remain non-partisan for funding or legal reasons (e.g., 501(c)(3)s).

• Foreign political parties or government organizations.

Joining Other Marches 

Participating in a larger protest can amplify your message and increase visibility.

✅ Connect with Organizers

• Reach out in advance to march organizers.

• Ask about guidelines—who can join, what banners are allowed, etc.

• Confirm that marching as Democrats Abroad aligns with the march’s goals.

✅ Represent Respectfully

• Follow the march’s tone and guidelines.

• Respect other groups and their messaging.

• Avoid distracting from the primary purpose of the march.

✅ Prepare Your Messaging

• Consider bilingual posters in both English and the local language.

• Keep messaging clear, positive, and aligned with both DA’s mission and the broader protest goals.