Emergency Meeting & De-Escalation Skills for Direct Action

Note: We’ll be combining our de-escalation training with a critical strategy session. Expect structure announcements, safety skills, and next steps.

Join us for an interactive in-person training designed to help activists build confidence in handling tense situations at protests, rallies, and direct actions. We’ll practice real-life scenarios—ranging from mild heckling to hostile behavior—so you can stay calm, avoid engagement, and de-escalate safely and effectively.

This hands-on workshop is based on MoveOn and Indivisible’s official protest safety guidance (watch the training here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Pgmn9QRr48&ab_channel=HandsOff%21NationalMobilizations) and includes live roleplay with improv actors.

You’ll learn how to:

• Stay focused and non-reactive when provoked

• Identify potential agitators and respond appropriately

• Practice peaceful redirection using chants or movement

• Know when and how to disengage, de-escalate, or call for help

This training is beginner-friendly—perfect for anyone planning to participate in public actions. No experience required. You’ll leave with practical tools to stay grounded and safe in the moment. And we really think its gonna be fun!

📝 Please RSVP to help us plan! :)

📢 Note: This meeting will be held in the Programming Room of the RT Jones Memorial Library. Neither the Library nor Sequoyah Regional Library Systems is affiliated with this event.