Original source: Occupy Houston [in solidarity, thank you!]

The Tampa Bay General Assembly has goals to meet and stands proud with the 99%, but we want to make sure everyone stays safe, knows their rights, and keeps this occupation a PEACEFUL one. Here are some handy tips, written as easy do’s and dont’s, which have been shared with us by our brothers and sisters in Houston.

• DON’T litter. In fact, if you see trash, pick it up! There’s a $200 fine for littering. It’s also gross and goes against our goals.
• DON’T block entrances or exits to buildings.
• DO keep to the sidewalks and make sure that others can get by on the sidewalks if they need to. Stay out of the streets!
• DON’T bring microphones, bullhorns, air horns, or electric instruments. Those require permits. If you need to be loud then use the people’s microphone!
• DO look out for people who are getting too rowdy or violent. If you see one find your nearest peacekeeper to calm them down.
• DO keep a buddy! You and your buddy will look out for each other and make sure you stay safe. Never lose sight of your buddy!
• If you see someone isolated please DO make them your buddy.
• DON’T scream or swear at people. Remember we’re here for the 99%. Screaming and swearing at people will only antagonize them. We want them joining us.
• On the other hand, please DO be as loud as you want.
• DO bring your friends and family. This is a peaceful event and affects us all.
• DON’T get distracted from our mission. Remember why we’re here!
• DO know your rights and the 1st Amendment. We have our rights to free speech and to peaceably assemble IF we are “petitioning for a governmental redress of grievances”. What’s that mean? That means you can occupy (but not obstruct) and peacefully protest for political reasons.
• DON’T think you’re allowed to do anything you want in the name of freedom of speech. Limit your speech to political speech and stay within the law!
• DO keep the cameras out and snap plenty of pictures! A picture is worth a thousand words, and we have a chance to show the world what an organized mass is capable of. Snapping pictures of our signs is a good way to show unity with our allies and the rest of the movement.
• DON’T escalate violence. We are a peaceful movement. Violence won’t solve this problem.
• DON’T let others escalate violence and DO protect each other.

Big thanks to our legal team for their research and making these issues known. Remember, stay safe out there!