Protesting Expectations
In the USA, You Have a Right to Protest
While this may not or is not allowed in other countries, the basic points remain the same and align with our teachings. Be mindful of this and if you do have any citations about how protests are permitted, feel free to cite the specifics for the sake of others to keep them and their communities safe.
The First Amendment of the United States Constitution explicitly states:
"The right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
The key word is “peaceably.” This right does not extend to acts of violence, vandalism, arson, or threats of harm. When such actions occur, they cease to be protests and become acts of terrorism—there is no ambiguity in this distinction.
To ensure that protests conducted on behalf of the First Church of Druwayu (FCD) align with our values and principles, we have established the following guidelines.
Guidelines for Protesting
Respect Free Speech Protest is an act of free speech. We must respect the free speech of others, even those we vehemently disagree with. If we fail to defend the rights of others to express their views—no matter how deplorable—we risk undermining our own rights. This principle is non-negotiable.
Defend Freedom of Expression Protest is an expression of freedom. To preserve our ability to express ourselves, we must defend this same right for others, even when their expressions conflict with our beliefs.
Be Informed Know the issue you are protesting. Protesting for the sake of protesting is counterproductive. Conduct independent research beyond popular narratives. Ensure your justification is well-founded, clearly articulated, and supported by fair, reasonable demands. Define specific, achievable goals for the protest.
Focus on Purposeful Change Effective protests are grounded in a legitimate theory of change—not change for its own sake. Like a structured debate, a protest must follow a logical course leading to a rational and consistent conclusion.
Base Protests on Facts and Ethics Protests should be rooted in evidence and ethical considerations—not popularity or the influence of prominent personalities. Avoid emotional appeals as the sole basis for your protest; instead, prioritize logic and reason.
Stay Focused Keep the protest centered on the issue at hand. Avoid being sidetracked by secondary or unrelated debates. If the core issue is unclear, refrain from engaging until you have clarity.
Avoid Partisan Agendas Protests should not serve as platforms to advance the agendas of individuals, organizations (including ours), or political parties. Focus on the issue at hand—not on emotional or partisan appeals.
Prioritize Facts Over Narratives Let facts take precedence over assumptions or opinions. Speak out when facts are taken out of context or misrepresented, redirecting the focus to objective truths.
Reject Violence and Intimidation Engaging in or inciting violence, harassment, or deprivation of others’ rights is unacceptable. Such actions are not protests—they are acts of terrorism and must not be tolerated.
Be Mindful of Threats to Freedom
Threats to freedom exist both domestically and internationally, often within government institutions. While some push for tyranny overtly, others act covertly through acts of terrorism, including assassinations.
Safety Measures:
Wear protective gear, such as bulletproof vests and body armor, to safeguard vital areas.
Carry defensive tools (e.g., tasers, pepper spray) but use them solely in self-defense.
Avoid attending high-risk protests if you have significant vulnerabilities or disabilities.
Speaking at Protests:
If you’re speaking at a rally, ensure you are protected by bulletproof glass. Organizers must also implement comprehensive security measures for all participants and observers.
This is not paranoia—it is a practical approach to safety in a volatile world.
Use of Flags and Symbols
Basic Instructions:
Do not use flags or symbols associated with Druwayu in protests without explicit permission.
Do not participate in protests not authorized by the FCD’s Drusidu.
Misrepresentation of Druwayu undermines our mission and principles and will be addressed legally if necessary.
Proposing a Protest
If you or a recognized branch of the FCD wishes to organize a protest, follow these steps:
Structure Your Proposal Use the guidelines outlined above to structure your protest plans.
Submit the Proposal Submit your detailed plans via the “Contact Us” option on the FCD website.
Await Approval Allow time for the Drusidu to review and vote on your proposal.
If approved, the protest will proceed with the full support of the FCD and associate Druwayu or the FCD with your actions. Refrain from engaging in violence or vandalism as that ceases to be a protest and turns into terrorism. On the same hand, don't be a law-abiding victim.
If rejected, you are free to protest independently but must not associate Druwayu or the FCD with your actions. Refrain from mentioning the organization if questioned about your participation.
A Call to Druans
Flags and banners embody Druwayu’s visible legacy. Whether you’re an artist or simply inspired, your contribution matters. Reflect logic’s clarity, humor’s joy, and absurdity’s freedom in your designs. As Custodians of Life, let us create banners that unite and inspire, promoting dignity, connection, and resilience.