AFSCME Civic Action: Rights, Safety, and Nonviolent Participation

This training prepares AFSCME members and local union leaders to participate safely, responsibly, and effectively in public demonstrations, rallies, and other forms of civic action.

Participants will explore how unions can engage in disciplined, lawful, and nonviolent activities that elevate worker voices and support democratic participation. The training introduces key principles of nonviolent civil resistance and examines how union involvement in civic action can help protect collective bargaining rights, public services, fair elections, and the democratic institutions that working people rely on.

Throughout the training, participants will review practical guidance for preparing for and participating in public demonstrations. Topics include First Amendment rights, appropriate interactions with law enforcement, personal and group safety planning, digital security and awareness, de-escalation techniques, and strategies for maintaining clear, nonpartisan messaging when participating in coalition-led actions.

Estimated Time to Complete: 30 minutes
Format: Self-paced online learning