JENKINS: Every public gathering is a large target and small act of defiance can be a great way to exercise our First Amendment rights. These gatherings, known as rallies and protests, bring people together in a common space to voice their opinions and engage in activism.
They can range from peaceful expressions of dissent, such as sign-waving or chanting slogans, to more assertive forms of protest, such as civil disobedience or symbolic acts of non-compliance.
Public gatherings, such as concerts, sporting events, and parades, are especially effective platforms for activism. With thousands of people in close proximity, the power of collective voices can be tremendous.
Rallies and protests can also take place in unusual locations, like shopping malls or government buildings, to grab the attention of officials and the wider public. Participants may choose to wear matching costumes or hold placards with compelling messages to maximize their impact.
Despite the occasional disruption, peaceful public gatherings generally pose no threats to public safety. Law enforcement agencies are generally trained to deal with such situations, and police presence is typically minimal unless necessary.
However, it is important to remember that even small acts of defiance, such as carrying a sign or chanting slogans, can be misinterpreted or take on a tone that may lead to confrontations.