‘Bans Off Miami’ Abortion Rights Protest Happening in Bayfront Park – NBC 6 South Florida

Crowds are set to gather in Bayfront Park to attend the Bans Off Miami: Rise Up protest for abortion rights on Saturday at 7 p.m.

Preparation

The organization asks that protesters wear green — the color that symbolizes the reproductive rights movement in many countries — and bring creative signs and comfortable walking shoes. It is also recommended that attendees bring water, a face mask, an energy snack and bug spray.

Attendees are being told to meet at the torch of friendship at Bayfront Park before marching around Biscayne Boulevard.

In case of emergency, we do know that Bayfront Marketplace has public restrooms, but it will be about a 5-10 minute walk from where we are to gather.  

Transportation

There is a map that outlines parking, the meeting point, restrooms, and the march route, which can be found here.

For anyone interested in attending but in need of a ride, Bayfront Park is easily accessible via the Metrorail and Metromover. Organizers suggest taking the train if possible to reduce congestion at the site of the demonstration.

The event organizers have also set up a carpool chat via WhatsApp for anyone who wishes to give or catch a ride to the rally. Click here to join.

Safety

Organizers have emphasized that safety is also a top priority for this event. With that in mind, they have implemented several safety measures, including the attendance of members of the Miami Street Medicine team and legal observers.

For anyone new to protesting or wanting to brush up on their situational awareness skills, the organizers have provided resources here.

Additionally, the organization has consulted with an ACLU attorney, and says, “As long as we are peacefully exercising our 1st Amendment Rights to free speech and complying with law enforcement, we will be within our constitutional right to protest.”

The organizers also advise attendees not to bring any kind of weapon or anything that could be viewed as a weapon, pocket knife, etc.).

Additionally, attendees are being told to stay out of streets and roadways, not touch, tamper with, or destroy any public property, and stay away from and be deferential to any police action.

Should there be any police action, organizers have said that videoing officers can often be a problem. Though it is allowed, any videoing can not take place close enough to interfere in any way with the police action — 30 feet might be a safe distance.