In the context of this question, I'm not interested in debating the legitimacy, efficacy, or motivation for protesting in the present climate. Assume the protester intends to participate in some public group protest (that is, put aside protesting from home, e.g. boycotting online shopping, writing to policy makers, etc. for this question). I'm interested in best practices the protester can follow to keep themselves and others as safe as they can given these conditions. Some obvious examples: wear a mask, practice social distancing as much as possible, don't attend if you're exhibiting symptoms, etc. Perhaps less obvious examples: Bring extra masks, distribute sanitizer, etc.
If the protests are conducted in a calm, peaceful manner, without aggression, etc., then it is possible to maintain anti-pandemic and sanitary safety standards. On the other hand, the gathering of people in larger groups during protests increases the risk of spreading virological infections, including, but not limited to, the risk of infection of people involved in protests with the SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus (causing Covid-19). However, protesters are strongly guided by certain emotions, which may be stronger than fear of coronavirus infection.
Greetings,
Dariusz Prokopowicz
Sadanand Pandey
I appreciate the frankness, and I agree participating in a protest during the pandemic is risky for individuals and us all. But you and I agreeing won't stop people from protesting. I'm asking this question in hopes of finding guidance for minimizing risk in an admittedly risky situation.
1. wear a mask
2. carry with you a hand sanitizer and sanitize often
3. avoid crowded groups in preference to fewer ones
Good question. I recommend electronic and/or hard copy protesting. At least until a good vaccine is given.