We the People Activist Toolkit: Defending a Free America

People power is the ACLU’s grassroots network of activists, volunteers, and supporters organizing in their communities to protect our rights and demand lasting change. We're regularly adding new ways to get involved, so bookmark this page and check back often for the latest actions you can take.

Less than three weeks after an ICE agent killed Renee Nicole Good, federal agents shot and killed 37-year-old Alex Jeffrey Pretti, an ICU nurse, after beating him in front of witnesses in Minneapolis. This tragedy marks the third shooting involving federal agents in less than three weeks and is further proof that they are out of control and endangering our communities.

For months now, communities in Minneapolis, Chicago, Charlotte, Los Angeles, and beyond have watched in horror as masked federal agents have dragged people out of their cars, smashed windows, zip-tied parents and children, physically harmed our neighbors, and, in multiple cases, killed them.

As these incidents mount, the danger to our communities is growing — and so is the urgency for lawful organized resistance. Our history shows that when people organize, protest, and demand justice, we can disrupt these abuses of power and build collective power in response. This toolkit is designed to help you TAKE ACTION: stand up for your community and your rights. The time to act is now — our freedom is at stake.

1: Demand Congress Rein in ICE

Send Congress a clear message that they cannot hand ICE or CBP a blank check, and must vote NO on a spending bill that does nothing to rein in ICE or CBP.

2: Attend an Eyes on ICE Training

Exercising our constitutional right to document and record ICE and other federal agents is more important than ever. Sign up for the next Eyes on ICE: Document and Record training for the latest updates on ICE and CBP's out-of-control and dangerous operations, and to learn about your rights when documenting and recording law enforcement encounters.

3: Share “Know Your Rights” Materials

In moments of heightened federal presence, especially when communities face additional surveillance and intimidation, it’s essential that people have access to clear, actionable information about their rights. The ACLU has information on immigrants’ rights, protestors’ rights, your rights when encountering law enforcement and military troops, and more. Read these “Know Your Rights” materials and share them across your social media platforms and directly with at least five friends or family members.

4: Join a Local Protest

From No Kings to ICE Out For Good protests, communities across the country are raising their voices against abuses of power and demanding accountability. We know that many people are feeling fear in this moment— but if you feel comfortable, join a local protest in your area to keep up the public pressure and momentum.

• Review this important resource guide before protesting

Protests can be simultaneously joyful and intense. This guide includes important information on lawful protest, reducing risks, protecting your digital privacy, and staying safe when exercising your rights.

5: Order a Pocket Constitution

Order a pocket constitution to keep in your backpack, glove compartment, or in your back pocket—and consider buying a 10-pack so you can share with friends. Each one includes the full text of the Constitution, the Amendments, including the Bill of Rights, as well as a Know Your Rights series: What to do if you're stopped by the police.